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COLONEL WILLIAM W. JENNINGS, 



HISTORY 



OF THE 



127th Regiment 

Pennsylvania Volunteers 



FAMILIARLY KNOWN AS THE 

"DAUPHIN COUNTY REGIMENT" 



Authorized by 

the Regimental Association and Prepared 

by its Committee 



Press of 
Repobt Publishing Company 

liKBANON, Pa. 



Vol 6>f 



Vr 



DEDICATION. 

Affectionately dedicated to the cherished 

memories of 

our departed comrades. 



PREFACE. 



THIRTY-EIGHT years is a long time to wait in describ- 
ing successive facts, occurring daily, and indeed 
hourly, during a period of nearly a year. Memory is 
treacherous, and diaries begun by the hundreds, were 
neglected, lost, and when required for reference, but four were 
found which could render historical aid, and those four were 
made and preserved by Major Rohrer, Comrade D. C. Reinohl, 
Comrade John Reinoehl and Lieutenant Fager. To them we 
are under many obligations in fixing dates and getting at accu- 
rate details. 

For equalizing honor and labor, the work was apportioned 
among the committee, — the chairman taking on himself the prep- 
aration of the First chapter, on the Formation of the Regiment. 
The other chapters were assigned as follows, namely: Chapter 
2, on the Formation of Companies, — Company "A," Captain F. 
Asbury Awl; Company "B," Lieutenant A. J. Fager; Company 
"C," Comrade Levi F. Heicher; Company "D," Captain James 
B. Keene; Company "E," Comrade Cyrus R. Lantz; Company 
"F," Lieutenant Thomas G. Sample; Company "G," Corporal 
Henry A. Swartz; Company "H," Major J. Rohrer; Company 
"I", Corporal S. G. Stevens; Company "K," Sergeant Henry 
J. Euston. Chapter 3. on the Marches, Lieutenant A. J. Fager. 
Chapter 4, on the Battle of Fredericksburg, Comrade George D. 
Rise. Chapter 5, on the Camps of the Regiment and Camp Life, 
Senator C. R. Lantz. Chapter 6, Battle of Chancellorsville, Ma- 
jor J. Rohrer. Chapter 7, Ofificers, Lieutenant-Colonel H. C. 
Alleman. Company 8, Return of the Regiment, Comrade John 
Reinoehl. Chapter 9, Incidents of the Service, and Chapter 10, 
Regimental Association, assignments were disregarded, so the 
matter was prepared by the sub-committee. 

The two most important chapters, relating to the battles in 
which the regiment participated, gave the committee the great- 
est concern, as accuracy was demanded; and the colonel during 



his lifetime, fearing that full justice might not be done to the 
regiment, appealed to the lieutenant-colonel in the spring of 
1893 to carefully prepare historical sketches of both battles. This 
was done, and he afterwards referred them to the regimental 
historian, who submitted them to Colonel Jennings afterwards, 
which he approved; and papers on them, later on, were read 
before the Association. Comrade Rise, as the regimental his- 
torian, prepared an account of the Battle of Fredericksburg; and 
Major Rohrer made copious notes from his diary, and after- 
wards wrote out his version of both battles. While these dif- 
ferent accounts tallied in the main, they differed from the several 
standpoints at which the respective writers viewed the situa- 
tion; so it was concluded best to strike out the repetitions, and 
compile one account of each battle from the separate accounts, 
which, it was concluded, would result in greater satisfaction to 
the reader. 

Invitations were freely extended to the surviving comrades 
to send in contributions of their recollection of the service, and 
incidents of the several companies and regiment. Captain 
Keene. of Company "D," Corporal Swartz, of Company "G," 
and others responded, so that manuscript of some 1,500 pages 
accumulated, all of which were carefully examined and scrutin- 
ized by the committee, condensed and purged, to the extent 
which was concluded would be the most acceptable to the sur- 
viving comrades of the regiment. 

H. C. Alleman, Chairman, 
J. Rohrer, 

C. R. Lantz, 
A. J. Fager, 

D. C. Reinohl, 
John Reinoehl, 
George D. Rise, 
Thos. G. Sample, 

Committee. 

On the death of Comrade George D. Rise, Comrade D. C. Eein- 
oehl was chosen to fill the vacancy. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTEE I. 
FORMATION OF THE REGIMENT.— Roster of the 

Field and Staff Officers— Permanent Eegimental 

Detail— Drum Corps and Band 9-22 

CHAPTER IT. 

COMPANY ORGANIZATIONS.— Company "A"- 
Roster of Company "A"— Company "B"— Ros- 
ter of Company "B"— Company "C"— Roster 
of Company "C "—Company "D"— Roster of 
Company "D"— Company "E"— Roster of Com- 
pany "E"— Company "F"— Roster of Company 
"F"— Company "G"— Roster of Company "G" 
—Company "H"— Roster of Company "H"— 
Company ' ' I ' ' —Roster of Company " I " — Com- 
pany "K"— Roster of Company "K" 23-101 

CHAPTER III. 
MARCHES 102-115 

CHAPTER IV. 
BATTLE OF FREDERICKSBURG 116 145 

CHAPTER V. 

CAMPS AND CAMP=LIFE.— Camp Curtin-Camp 
Welles — Camp Boas — Camp Jennings — Camp 
Dauphin — Camp Alleman — Cam.j) Rohrer — Camp 
J. Wesley Awl 146-163 

CHAPTER VI. 
BATTLE OF CHANCELLORSVILLE 164-179 



CHAPTER Vii. 

OFFICERS.— Field Officers— Staff Officers— Non- 
commissioned Staff— Officers of Company "A" 
—Officers of Company "B"— Officers of Company 
"C" -Officers of Company "D"— Officers of 
Company "E"— Officers of Company "F"— Offi- 
cers of Company "G"— Officers of Company 
"H"— Officers of Company "I"— Officers of 
Company " K " 180-196 

CHAPTER VIJI. 
RETURN OF THE REGIMENT.— SUMMARY. . . 197 205 

CHAPTER IX. 

INCIDENTS OF THE SERVICE.— A Commuted 
Sentence— Tiie Vicissitudes of a Soldier— My First 
Experience on Picket Duty— Incident of the Bat- 
tle of Fredericksburg — Anecdotes — Occurrences — 
Camp Fires — Forlorn Hope — Gratitude — Obedi- 
ence to Orders- What is Camp Life?— My Person- 
al Experience as a Wounded Soldier — Incidents 
of Camp Life— Frank — Fatigue Duty — Corporal 
Lemuel Moyer— From Major Rohrer's Diary 206-298 

CHAPTER X. 

THE 127th REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION.— 

Address of Colonel W. W. Jennings — Address of 
Dr. Simeon H. Guilford— Address of Colonel J. 
Wesley Awl— Address of Major J. Rohrer— Ad- 
dress of Colonel H. C. Alleman — Address of 
Hon. Thomas G. Sample — Address of Adjutant 
Augustus L. Chayne— Address of Major John T. 
Ensminger — Address of Comrade C. R. Lantz — 
Address of Comrade William H. Siple— Greeting 
of Comrade John L. Whisler — Address of Comrade 
Levi F. Heicher— Address of Lieutenant Albert 
J. Fager— Address of Captain Henry T. Euston— 
Eulogy on the Death of Col. Wm. W. Jennings. . . 299-335 



PORTRAITS. 



• Page 

^Col. Wm. W. Jennings, in 1862 Frontispiece 

v'Lt.-Col. H. C. AUeman, in 1862 9 

V Maj. Jere. Rohrer, in 1862 19 

-^ Capt. F. Asbury Awl 24 

-/ Lieut. John T. Ensminger 30 

/ Capt. J. Wesley Awl 34 

Capt. Jas. Henderson 42 

V Capt. Jas. B. Keene 49 

Capt. Lorenzo L. Greenawalt 61 

Lieut. Joseph A. Bowman 63 

V Capt. W. H. Hummel 69 

Capt. John J. Ball 76 

^ Capt. John K. Shott 82 

Capt. C. A. Nissley 93 

\/' Comrade Cyrus E. Lantz 146 

V Camp Boas ^^^ 

: Comrade John Reinoehl 199 

, Corporal Henry A. Swartz 217 

\y' Comrade Geo. D. Rise 245 

V Comrade Benj. Brandt, Treasurer 299 

'/ Col. Wm. W. Jennings, in 1893 304 

Dr. Simeon H. Guilford 306 

/ Maj. Jere. Rohrer, in 1902 314 

V Hon. Thos. G. Sample 320 

V Adjutant Augustus L. Chayne 321 

/ Maj. John T. Ensminger 322 

v' Hon. Cyrus R. Lantz, in 1902 323 

/■ Comrade Wm. H. Siple 325 

Comrade John L. Whisler 326 

Comrade Levi F. Heicher 327 

v' Lt. Albert J. Eager 328 

/ Capt. Henry T. Euston 329 

V Hon. H. C. Alleman, in 1902 330 



Presidents of 127th Pennsylvania Volunteers 
Association. 



1889 Col. W. W. Jennings 

1889-1890 Dr. Simeon H. Guilford 

1890-1891 Col. J. Wesley Awl 

1891-1892 Maj. Jeremiah Eohrer 

1892-1893 Col. H. C. AUeman 

1893-1894 Hon. Thomas G. Sample 

1894-1895 Adjt. A. L. Chayne 

1895-1896 Maj. John T. Ensminger 

1896-1897 Hon. Cyrus R. Lautz 

1897-1898 Com. Wm. H. Siple 

1898-1899 Com. John L. Whisler 

1899-1900 Com. Levi F. Heicher 

1900-1901 Lieut. Albert J. Fager 

1901-1902 Capt. Henry T. Euston 



CHAPTER I. 




Formation of the Regiment. 

HE result of the first fifteen months of 
the great Civil War, proved to be very 
unsatisfactory to the Government at 
Washington; but little headway was 
made, and the Confederates were becom- 
ing aggressive; so the authorities at the 
Capital concluded to call for more troops, 
and on the 7th of July, 1862, President 
Lincoln issued his Proclamation, calling 
for 300,000 more volunteers to serve for 
"three years, or during the war." 

Recruiting had become languid, a draft was imminent, 
and the designated officers, authorized to raise regiments, 
were meeting with indifferent success. It was apparent 
that the men did not care to volunteer for so long a temj 
as three years, notwithstanding the inducement of liberal 
bounties offered. The great War Governor of Pennsylva- 
nia, joined by the Governors of the other States, made an 
appeal to the President to accept the required quotas from 
their respective States for a shorter term of service, and 
the consent of the War Department was reluctantly se- 
cured, accepting a limited number of regiments for a term 
of nine months. Governor Curtin issued his proclama- 
tion under date of July 21, 1862, appealing to the patriot- 
ism of the people of Pennsylvania, and eloquently urging 
them to fill up the quota requirement of the Keystone 
State, to serve for nine months. It was generally sup- 
posed that this privilege of entering the service for the 



10 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

designated comparatively short period would be kept open 
during the summer; but after sixteen Pennsylvania regi- 
ments were recruited, orders from Washington were sud- 
denly issued, refusing to accept any more men for a 
shorter term than three years, or during the war. 

Soon after the muster-out of the Lochiel Grays of Har- 
risburg, of which William W. Jennings was first lieu- 
tenant, he was appointed by the Adjutant General of 
Pennsylvania, Adjutant of Camp Curtin. In this posi- 
tion he developed executive ability of a high order, and 
became ambitious to fill a more prominent position. He 
applied to the Governor for authority to raise a regiment 
under the proclamation of the President ; and later on, on 
the proclamation of the Governor, he received assurances, 
from both the Governor and Adjutant General Russell 
that, on raising the required ten companies, he would be 
commissioned colonel of the regiment. 

Captain W. H. Hummel and Lieutenant Thomas G. 
Sample, of Harrisburg, were recruiting a company for the 
nine months' service, and they tendered the captaincy of 
the company to Adjutant Jennings, who at once accepted 
the offer, and the company by consolidation was soon 
filled to the maximum. With this company as a start, he 
went to work to secure additional companies, inducing 
Captain John J. Ball, who was then drill master of Camp 
Curtin, to raise a company. 

On securing official assurance that he would be ap- 
pointed colonel of a regiment, Colonel Jennings assumed 
that he was fully authorized to nominate his associate field 
officers, together with the adjutant and quartermaster ot 
the regimental staff. He immediately called at the law 
office of H. C. Alleman, Esq., in Harrisburg, and intro- 
duced himselfj — for up to this time they were personal 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. II 

strangers to each other, — stating that he had a very lively 
experience and kindly recollection of a friendly act per- 
formed in April, 1861, and that, as an evidence of his 
grateful appreciation of that kindness, he tendered him 
the position of lieutenant-colonel of his regiment. The re- 
cipient of this unexpected favor expressed both surprise 
and delight, and after thanking the embr\^o colonel, in- 
quired what would be expected of him in assisting to 
raise this regiment ? Colonel Jennings replied that it was 
usual for a lieutenant-colonel to bring in two, three or four 
companies, and added : "But I will not require that of 
you." Mr. Alleman then replied, "as little as I can do will 
be to raise one company, and I shall start in at once with 
. the determination of securing a company without unneces- 
sary delay." This pleased Colonel Jennings, and within 
an hour of the interview a printed call was nailed upon 
his office shutter calling for recruits; and in the course of 
a few days he marched his company into Camp Curtin, 
and was commissioned and mustered into the United 
States service as captain. 

During the interview it was concluded that the posi- 
tion of major should be left open for the present; Colonel 
Jennings proposing to consult with Captain Alleman freely 
in the selection of the major, the commissioned and non- 
commissioned staff officers of the regiment. 

In a subsequent interview. Colonel Jennings reported 
that he had the offer of three companies from the Cumber- 
land Valley, two of which hailed from Carlisle, and all of 
them were particularly friendly to Captain John Lee, who 
aspired to be major of the regiment to which they would 
be attached. As Captain Lee was a personal friend of 
both Colonel Jennings and Captain Alleman, they agreed 
to make this offer an accomplished fact. 



12 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Captain Jennings having authorized Captain John J. 
Ball, of Harrisburg, and also Dr. James Henderson, of 
Hummelstown, each to recruit a company, with his own, 
and Captain Alleman's company, he virtually controlled 
four prospective companies from Dauphin county, and 
with the proposition from Captain Lee for three com- 
panies from the Cumberland Valley, three additional 
companies were suggested from the northern portion of 
the State, whose captains proposed to join the organization 
for the respective regimental positions of adjutant, quar- 
termaster, and sutler. These arrangements were speedily 
consummated, and the roster of ten companies was sub- 
mitted to the Adjutant General to be formed into one reg- 
iment, of which Colonel W. W. Jennings was designated 
as colonel; Captain H. C. Alleman as lieutenant-colonel, 
and Captain John Lee as major. 

The general policy of the State administration, in the 
formation of these new regiments, was in the direction of 
local organization ; and, as much as possible, the companies 
of a county and adjoining counties to the number of ten 
companies were required to form a regimental organiza- 
tion. There were exceptions to this rule, and Colonel 
Jennings felt that he had some reason to be favored in the 
exception. 

In the meantime some decided opposition was manifest- 
ed, and new candidates presented themselves for promo- 
tion. The contest necessarily delayed the organization of 
the regiment, and time only intensified the contest. An 
enforcement of the general policy of the administration 
was demanded, and, notwithstanding the friendliness of 
both the Governor and the Adjutant General, it was 
deemed expedient to enforce the rule. 

Governor Curtin proposed a compromise, suggesting 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 13 

that he would at once commission Jennings as colonel of 
the regiment, and would direct the Adjutant General to 
issue an order empowering the captains of the respective 
ten companies to elect the other two field officers ; Colonel 
Jennings to preside at the election. This proposition from 
the Governor required seven Dauphin county companies to 
form a regimental organization to be designated the "Dau- 
phin County Regiment," and it then became simply a 
question of what other three companies should become 
part of the organization. Cumberland county is con- 
tiguous territory, and if the three companies from Cum- 
berland county had been required, or permitted, to join m 
the formation of the regiment, the same result of the ros- 
ter formation would have been accomplished; but other 
influences were at work, resulting in an order from the 
Adjutant General's office requiring the seven companies 
from Dauphin county, with the companies of Captain 
Greenawalt, of Lebanon county ; Captain Fox, from 
Schuylkill county, and Captain Shipley, from Adams 
county, to form the organization. The proposition of the 
Governor took the forni of an order, after the likelihood 
of an amical)le agreement seemed to be entirely out of the 
question. Notices were sent out to each of the nine cap- 
tains to meet at the office of Captain Alleman forthwith, 
and go ir.to an election for field officers. Colonel Jennings 
was ordered to hold the election. At a late hour on Sat- 
urday night, the i6th of August, 1862, all of the captains 
reported and were present except Captain Fox, who had 
gone to Schuylkill county for recruits to fill his company. 
Colonel Jennings called the meeting to order, and inform- 
ed the captains of his order from the Governor requiring 
him to preside at the election for the two remaining field 
officers of the regiment ; and stated further that he had 
concluded not to vote in the election of these officers. 



14 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

The result of the first and only ballot for lieutenant-col- 
onel showed a majority in favor of Captain H. C. Alle- 
man, who was duly declared, by Colonel Jennings, elected 
lieutenant-colonel of the regiment. 

A number of ballots were then cast for major, result- 
ing in a tie vote, and Colonel Jennings was appealed to, to 
cast the deciding vote, which he declined to do. Finally a 
majority of the votes were cast for Captain Jeremiali 
Rohrer, and he was declared duly elected major of the 
regiment. 

A certificate of election was prepared after midnight, 
and certified to the Governor, who, however, took no ac- 
tion until the following Monday. 

In the meantime, Colonel Jennings received orders to 
take his regiment to Washington ; and about nine o'clock 
on Sunday morning, the 17th of August, 1862, nine com- 
panies of the regiment were on their way to the front. 

But for the controversy for field officers, the regiment 
would have been numbered 122, instead of 127, as it was 
entitled by seniority to that number. 

Immediately after the election on Sunday morning — 
for it was past midnight when the election poll closed^ — 
an order from General Wool, commanding the Depart- 
ment, was received by Captain F. Asbury Awl, detaching 
his company — the First City Zouaves — from the regiment, 
and assigning it for special duty within the department. 
A copy of this order was duly received by Colonel Jen- 
nings. This detail continued until February, 1863, when, 
on an urgent appeal to the War Department, Captain F. 
Asbury Awl was ordered to join his regiment, which was 
then in the front, on the Rappahannock, near Falmouth, 
Virginia. He proceeded with his company to Washing- 
ton City, and reported to General Heintzelman for trans- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1$ 

portation to the regiment; but an inspection of the com- 
pany was reported to headquarters, which showed tlie 
company to such admirable advantage, that the General, 
instead of furnishing the requested transportation, order- 
ed the captain with his company to CHffburn Barracks, 
with instructions to report to the Governor of the District. 

The company was kept in Washington, and its vicinity, 
until the expiration of its term of service; and, notwith- 
standing the urgent appeals of the captain to join the regi- 
ment, and be mustered out with it, the company was or- 
dered to Harrisburg, and mustered out of the service on 
the 8th of May, 1863. 

While there were regrets expressed by both the officers 
and men of the regiment that one of the companies of the 
organization was detached — and probably there were also 
some regrets felt and expressed by the detailed company — • 
yet they remembered that it was the first duty of a soldier 
to obey orders, and they consequently submitted to the 
"fate of war." It was, nevertheless, a source of constant 
annoyance in regimental drill, and regimental details, that 
the awkward number of nine companies only, appeared 
in regimental formations; and this reduced number im- 
posed additional burden for picket and fatigue duties, as 
the regiment was charged with its full complement of ten 
companies. 

While the regiment was formed with celerity, and was 
on its way to the front before the meridian of the day of 
its formation, hundreds upon hundreds of the relatives 
and friends of those patriotic lads assembled at Camp 
Curtin on that memorable Sunday morning to bid them 
"good-bye," — perhaps forever, — and witness their depart- 
ure to the sunny, but inhospitable, fields of the South ; and 
with streaming tears and earnest prayers; with patriotic 



l6 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

cheers and fervent blessings, they wafted the parting cry, 
"God bring you safely home again with victory and with 
honor." 

The regiment ordered off so suddenly, before commis- 
sions were issued to the field officers, the lieutenant-colonel 
and the major retained the command of their respective 
companies ; but when the regiment reached Camp Welles, 
in the defences of Washington, a telegram announced that 
commissions were signed and forwarded to each of the 
field officers, in accordance with the election. So on the 
following day the three commissions arrived, when 
Colonel Jennings and Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman rode to 
Washington, and were accordingly sworn into the United 
States service, respectively as colonel and lieutenant- 
colonel of the 127th Regiment, leaving the major in com- 
mand of the regiment. A few days later, Major Rohrer, 
accompanied by Adjutant Orth, went to Washington City, 
and were duly sworn into the United States service, re- 
spectively as major and adjutant of the regiment. 

The three field officers, although personally unac- 
quainted with each other until a few days before the or- 
ganization of the regiment, worked together harmoniously 
and there never was the slightest official difference or fric- 
tion between them. They became firm and fast friends 
during life. Colonel Jennings was the executive officer; 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman was the administrative offi- 
cer; while Major Rohrer was the emergency officer, and, 
as the third member of the board of field officers, was con- 
sulted from time to time ; and it was understood between 
them, that if any differences of policy or judgment should 
arise between the colonel and the lieutenant-colonel. Major 
Rohrer should cast the deciding vote. 

Although Captain F. Asbury Awl's company was de- 



12/ Til REGIMENT, P. V. 17 

tached from the regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman 
insisted that his company should be given the post of hon- 
or on the right of the regiment, and, in alphabetical for- 
mation, be designated Company "A" ; and that Captain J. 
Wesley Awl's company should be given the second post 
of honor, on the left of the regiment, and designated 
Company "B," which was agreed to and named accord- 
ingly. Colonel Jennings nominated Captain Henderson's 
company for the color company, and it was designated 
Company "C." Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman's old com- 
pany was named Company "D"; Captain Greenawalt's 
company became Company "K" ; and Colonel Jennings' 
old command was made Company "F"; Captain Ball's 
company was named Company "G" ; Captain Rohrer's old 
command was made Company "H," while Captain Ship- 
ley's company became Company "I," and Captain Fox's 
company was named Company "K." 

Colonel Jennings stated in conference that he had prom- 
ised Captain Henderson one of the staff offices of the regi- 
ment, so Lieutenant John F. Orth was designated as ad- 
jutant. The lieutenant-colonel claimed one of the staff 
officers for his old company, and Frederick R. Gilbert, of 
Millersburg, Pa., was named as quartermaster. These two 
nominations were certified to the Governor, and they were 
promptly commissioned and mustered. 

The surgeon, the two assistant surgeons and the chap- 
lain were appointed by the Governor, and this completed 
the commissioned regimental staff". 

Colonel Jennings claimed for his company the position 
of sergeant-major, and Charles H. Small was accordingly 
appointed sergeant-major of the regiment. In compli- 
ment to Captain J. Wesley Awl, Clement B. Care, of Com- 
pany "B," was made commissary-sergeant of the regi- 



l8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ment; and on the personal request of Lieutenant-Colonel 
Alleman, Washington Porter Oglesby, of the same com- 
pany, was honored with the position of hospital steward 
of the regiment. Major Rohrer claimed for his company 
one of the non-commissioned Staff, and David Campbell, 
of Company "H," was made quartermaster-sergeant. 
This completed the non-commissioned staff officers of the 
regiment. 

Quartermaster Gilbert, after serving a while, expressed 
a decided preference for the position of sutler; so he re- 
signed his position as quartermaster, and was appointed 
by the regimental board sutler of the regiment. Adju- 
tant Orth then resigned his position as adjutant of the 
regiment, and was commissioned quartermaster of the 
regiment ; while Second Lieutenant Augustus L. Chayne, 
of Company "D," was promoted to adjutant of the regi- 
ment. 

This regimental formation continued until the muster- 
out of the 127th Regiment. There were but a few changes 
in the staff ; and this was one of the very few Pennsylva- 
nia regiments where no changes were made by the vicissi- 
tudes of war among the field officers ; who were mustered 
out with the regiment, as they were mustered in ; and for 
more than a generation after their term of service, ap- 
peared at the annual reunions of the regiment to gpreet 
their old surviving comrades. 




JEREMIAH ROHRER. 

Mnjor 127tli Regiment, P. V, 

MiiUiletown, Va. 



12/711 REGIMENT, P. V. IQ 

Roster of the Field and Staff Officers. 

Name. Rank. Remai'ks. 

William W. Jennings Colonel Mustered in as Captain, Aug. 6, 1862; mustored 

out as Captain, Aug. 15, 1862. Promoted 
from Captain Co. F, Aug. 16, 1862. Wound- 
ed Battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862. 
Mustered out with the Regiment, May 29, 
1863. Re-entered the service as Colonel of 
the 26th Regt. P. V. M. Died at Harris- 
burg, Feb. 28. 1894, and buried in Harris- 
burg Cemetery. 

Hiram C. Allemau Lieut.-Col Mustered in as Captain, Aug. 5, 1862; mustered 

out as Captain, Aug. 15, 1862. Promoted to 
Lieut. -Colonel, Aug. 16, 1862. Wounded 
Battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 15, 1862. 
Wounded Battle of Chancellorsville, May 3, 
1863. Re-entered the service as Colonel of 
the 36th Regt. P. V. E.. and was the Mil- 
itary Governor of the Gettysburg Battle 
Field. 

Jeremiah Rohrer Major Mustered in as Captain, Aug. 12, 1862; mustered 

out as Captain, Aug. 18, 1862. Promoted to 
Major, Aug. 19. 1862. Mustered out with 
the Regiment, May 29, 1863. 

John F. Orth Adjutant Mustered lu as First Lieutenant and Adjutant, 

August 19, 1862. 

Augustus L. Chayne Adjutant Promoted from Second Lieutenant Co. D, to 

First Lieutenant and Adjutant, Oct. 13, '62. 
Wounded Battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 
1862. Mustered out with the Regimeut, 
May 29, 1863. Died, and Buried in Har- 
risburg Cemetery. 

Frederick R. Gilbert Quarter- Joined, Aug. 16, 1862. Mustered in, Aug. 16, 

master 1862. Resigned, Sept. 12, 1862, and ap- 
pointed Sutler of the Regiment. 

John F. Orth Quartermaster Promoted from Adjutant, Oct. 13, 1862. Mus- 
tered out with the Regiment, May 29, 1863. 

James R. Reily. .(Surgeon) Major Joined, Sept. 4, 1862. Mustered, Sept 4, 1862. 

Relieved at Camp Alleman. Transferred to 
179th Regt. P. V. 

Edw. H. Horner. . (Surgeon) Major. . ..Joined and mustered, Aug. 15, 1862. Promoted 

from Assistant Surgeon, Feb. 24, 1863. Mus- 
tered out with the Regiment, May 29, 1863. 
Re-entered the service as Surgeon of the 
26th Regt. P. V. M. 

Jacob H. Vastine .... (Assistant. .. .Mustered into the service, Aug. 15, 1862; but 
Surgeon).... only joined the Regiment at Camp Boas, 
First Lieut.... early in September, and mustered out June 
8, 1863. 

John C. Gregg (Chaplain) Joined, Aug. 20, 1862. Mustered out with the 

Captain Regiment, May 29, 1863. Deceased. 

NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS. 

Charles H. Small Sergt.-Maj Mustered. July 31, 1862. Promoted from Private 

Co. F, Aug. 18. 1862. Wounded Battle of 
Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862. Mustered out 
with the Regiment, May 29, 1863. 

Washington P. Oglesby .. Hospital Mustered, Aug. 8, 1862. Promoted from Prl- 

Steward vate, Co. B. Aug. 26, 1862. Mustered out 

with the Regiment, May 29, 1863. 

Clement B. Care.... Com. Sergt. .. .Mustered, Aug. 8, 1862. Promoted from Private 

Co. B. Aug. 26, 1862. Mustered out with 
the Regiment, May 29, 1863. Re-entered 
the service as Captain 36th Regt. P. V. E. 
Died, and burled at Llnglestown, Pa. 



20 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 



David Campbell Q. M. Sergt. 



.Mustered, Aug. 12. 1862. Promoted from Pri- 
vate, Co. H, Dec. 1, 1862. Mustered out 
with the Regiment. May 29, 1863. Died at 
Reading, Pa., April 2, 1900. 



Permanent Regimental Detail. 



Name. Rank. 

J. William Bush Musician . , 

James A. Drain Musician . . 

Horace B. Jones Private . , 

Irvine S. Boas Musician., 

Cyrus McLaughlin Private. . 

Jacob S. Schaeffer Private., 



Detail Duty. 

..Company G, detailed as Drum-Major of the Regi- 
ment. 
.Company G, detailed as Fife-Major of the Regi- 
ment. 

..Company "F", detailed as Regimental Clerk. 

..Company F, detailed as Clerk at Headquarters. 

..Company K, detailed as Orderly to the Colonel. 

..Company I. detailed as Orderly to the Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 21 

DRUM CORPS AND BAND. 



A drum corps, comprising a fifer and a drummer from 
each company of the regiment, was formed, who were in- 
structed and led by drum major J. William Bush, and 
fife major James A. Drain, both of Company "G," and 
they were both skilled musicians. The dnmi corps was 
carefully instructed, required to practice the full drill 
hours, and being apt and ambitious, they were not long 
in reaching a degree of proficiency; so that by the time 
they reached the Rappahannock, in the Army of the Poto- 
mac, they soon acquired a reputation as one of the best 
drum corps in the Second Army Corps. 

Immediately on the organization of the regiment, ap 
plication was made to headquarters by a number of musi- 
cians from the several companies to form a brass band. The 
application was granted, on condition that there would be 
no expense to the Government, or to the regiment, in pro- 
curing instruments. Some of the boys sent home for their 
instruments, while others were procured by a voluntary 
contribution fund made up by the officers, resulting in a 
well equipped band, which was taught and led by Mr. 
Augustus Ball, and under his daily instructions, and 
much practice, they too acquired a good reputation as 
musicians, and when they reached headquarters on the 
Rappahannock, created a sensation, after serenading the 
commanding General of the Second Army Corps. 

Mr. Augustus Ball was the son of Captain John J. 
Ball, of Company "G." and was indefatigable in his efforts 
for success ; and being an excellent musician, and an able 
instructor, and withal, ambitious, he had the proud satis- 
faction, long before the muster-out of the regiment, of 



22 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

acquiring a wide-spread reputation as a successful and an 
accomplished band-leader. 

The band acquired a high degree of proficiency, and 
was a great acquisition to the regiment, making the dress 
parades attractive, and, while on the marches, and in the 
evenings, they made themselves useful in cheering their 
comrades and enlivening the camp by the sweet strains of 
their harmonious and enjoyable music. 



CHx^PTER II. 

Company Organizations. 



C^^ OMPANY "A" was the one company of the regi- 
, ment which had a separate and distinctive sphere 
^^ of operations; and as a consequence, its history- 
was distinctively and wholly its own. While it 
was of, and officially a part of the organization, it was at 
no time subject to regimental control, or under regimental 
orders ; although borne upon the regimental roster. Its dis- 
tance and isolation from the regiment necessarily gave it a 
different status, and a separate history; while the other 
nine companies which were at the front from the date of 
their regimental formation, and during their entire term of 
enlistment, and always together, lost much of their indi- 
viduality or company identity, while acting in concert, and 
were absorbed in the greater organization as a regiment, 
in which this combination united in making regimental 
history. 



COMPANY "A," 



127th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

HIS company, known officially on the military 
records of the late Civil War, as Company "A," 
127th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, was 
also known, locally, as the "First City Zouaves," 
of Harrisburg, Pa. 

It was organized in the spring of 1861, and having 

23 



24 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

been armed and equipped by the authorities of the Com- 
monwealth of Pennsylvania, and being part of its militia 
system, regularly performed the duties incident thereto. 

When General Banks was driven across the Potomac 
in the early spring of 1862 under the combined attacks of 
Jackson's and Ewell's divisions of the Confederate army, 
and sudden fear had seized the people of the North, par- 
ticularly of Pennsylvania, of a threatened invasion, the 
War Department of the Government issued a hurried 
order on May 25, 1862, calling for the enlisting of all vol- 
unteer militia. The services of the First City Zouaves 
were offered on the same day, and with full ranks were 
mustered into the United States service. Two days later, 
the order of the War Department was rescinded, setting 
forth that the "threatening aspect of affairs was no longer 
alarming," and the company was regularly mustered out 
on May 2J, 1862. It is a notable fact that this company, 
although large numbers of militia organizations through- 
out the State had offered their services, was the only one 
actually mustered in by the United States authorities un- 
der that call, as the muster rolls on file will attest. 

When Governor Curtin issued his proclamation on July 
21, 1862, calling for the organization of volunteer regi- 
ments of nine months' troops, under the general call of the 
President of July 7th, 1862, for 300,000 men, the services 
of the First City Zouaves were tendered on the same day 
of its issuance, and promptly accepted. Five days later — 
July 26 — the company was mustered into the service of 
the United States by Captain William B. Lane, 3d U. S. 
Cavalry, mustering officer. The existing officers, F. As- 
bury Awl and John S. Bitzer, were commissioned as cap- 
tain and first lieutenant, respectively, and John T. Ens- 
minger as second lieutenant, in lieu of the officer 








F. ASBURY AWL. 




apt 
I.; 


Mill 1 
il.. ( 


:■". ••A." ll'Tlli Ucuii 

•"Iniirl 201st K,-iiji,.,it, 


It. P. V 

r. V. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 2$ 

holding that rank, who was found to be physically dis- 
qualified. As this was the first company mustered in, un- 
der that call of the Governor, and as its commander was 
the ranking ofificer, he was ordered to proceed to the fields 
north of Camp Curtin, and established a camp suitable for 
the accommodation of troops that were expected to arrive 
in large numbers at the seat of government, and to take 
temporary command of the same. 

The camp was established and named "Camp Sim- 
mons," in honor of Colonel Seneca G. Simmons, 5th 
Pennsylvania Reserves, then recently killed in action be- 
fore Richmond, Subsequently it was merged with Camp 
Curtin, and its distinctive identity lost. 

It was expected that company organizations, as rapidly 
as they arrived in camp and were duly examined, mus- 
tered in and fully armed and equipped for the service, 
would be placed into regimental organizations, officered 
and sent forward ; but the State authorities directed that 
all regiments should be made up along county lines or 
contiguous territory. This order held the First City 
Zouaves in a state of expectancy for the best part of a 
month, until August i6th, when the 127th, or Dauphin 
county regiment, was formed, and to which it was as- 
signed as Company A. 

Meanwhile the ''Zouaves" had been detailed specially 
for provost duty in and about the City of Harrisburg. 
Immediately upon the regimental assignment, an order 
was received from General John E. Wool, headquarters 
Baltimore, commanding the Department, "detaching 
Company A from the regiment, for special duty within 
the Department." 

After the departure of the nine months' troops from 
Camp Curtin, the company was ordered to establish its 



26 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

quarters at some point in Cumberland county, adjacent 
to Harrisburg. A camp, called "Camp Dodge," was 
pitched on the high hill above Bridgeport, which the next 
year, (1863), during the Gettysburg campaign, was forti- 
fied and named Fort Washington. This was occupied 
until the cold weather made it necessary to go into winter 
quarters. Barracks were established in the company's 
armory. During a period of over six months of the term 
of service, until the middle of March, 1863, the duties 
performed were varied in character, and full of adventur- 
ous incidents, but at the same time extremely vexatious 
and annoying, and devoid of that glory which goes down 
into history. 

Such duties as the guarding of public and private prop- 
erty, receiving and distributing military prisoners to Fort 
Delaware and other places of confinement, arresting de- 
serters, assisting the provost marshals of Dauphin, Berks 
Lancaster, York and neighboring counties in enforcing 
the draft, holding in check the turbulent element of 
Southern Pennsylvania, who were disposed to resist the 
law, etc., fell to the lot of Company A, and whilst it nec- 
essarily broke up the company into fragments, neverthe- 
less excellent discipline was maintained throughout the 
command. 

In early February, 1863, the captain, recognizing the 
fact that but three months more remained of the com- 
pany's term of service, and that they had not yet been or- 
dered to the field, and as all indications pointed to an 
early advance movement of the Army of the Potomac, 
forwarded an urgent request to the War Department 
that "his company be ordered to join its regiment, then at 
the front, near Falmouth, Va." 

This communication was referred back "for remark" 



I27TH REGlMEiNT, P. V. 2^ 

through the regular channels to the commandant at Har- 
risburg, who disapproved the same. A local incident oc- 
curred about a month later which changed the opinion of 
the commandant, who issued peremptory orders "for the 
command to proceed at once to Washington, and upon ar- 
rival there to report to General Heintzelman, who will 
furnish the necessary transportation to the regiment." 
Report was made to General Heintzelman, as per orders, 
but instead of "furnishing the necessary transportation," 
an inspecting officer was sent, who inspected the com- 
pany at the Soldiers' Rest, where it was quartered. No 
orders were received for nearly two days. At the close 
of the second day, the company was ordered to appear at 
his headquarters, situated near the White House. By in- 
vitation, the company now had the pleasure of drilling be- 
fore President Lincoln. General Heintzelman then or- 
dered the captain to proceed with his company to Cliff- 
bum Barracks, on the outskirts of the city, and to report 
to General Martindale, Governor of the District, for as- 
signment to duty. Then began another tour of provost 
duty in and about Washington City, at the Old Capitol 
Prison, Aqueduct, Chain Bridge, and various other points, 
and so it continued until the expiration of its term of ser- 
vice. The company was mustered out at Harrisburg, 
May 8, 1863. 

Events seem to have been so ordered, that Company A 
was deprived during its entire term of service of the 
pleasure of association with the other nine companies of 
the regiment, and its worthy field, staff and line officers, 
and to share in their glories on the field of battle. 

With what credit Company A performed the duties as- 
signed it, however, may be best judged from the accom- 
panying copies of official documents : 



28 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

(Extract from official report of the Adjutant General.) 

Harrisburg, Pa., December 31, 1862. 
"Company A, 127th Regiment, commanded by Capt. F. Asbury 
Awl, are thoroughly drilled and disciplined, and in maintaining 
the good order of the city, guarding the State Arsenal and the 
Hospitals established here, and protecting both public and pri- 
vate property, have rendered most valuable service, although 
active service in the field would have been preferable to the 
duties assigned them. 

(Signed) "A. L. Russell, 

"Adjutant General." 



"U. S. Mustering and Disbursing Office, 

"Harrisburg, Pa., March 20th, 1863. 
"Capt. F. Asbury Awl, 

"Comd'g Co. A, 127 Regt. P. V. 
"Sir: On the eve of your departure for Washington en route 
to join your regiment, I desire to thank you and your command 
for the very valuable service you have rendered the government 
authorities in preserving good order and enforcing law. You 
have a company of which you may feel justly proud. I know of 
none better drilled and disciplined outside the regular army. 

(Signed) "Rich'd I. Dodge, 
"Capt. 8th U. S. Infantry. 
"Comd'g Post." 



"Headquarters Defences of Washington, 
"Washington, May 5, 1863. 
"Capt. F. Asbury Awl, Commanding Co. A, 127th Regt. 
Penn'a Vols., will proceed at once with his command to Harris- 
burg, Pa., to be mustered out, by reason of expiration of term 
of service. 

"The commanding General desires to express his high appre- 
ciation of the efficient manner this company performed its duties 
while connected with this department. 

"By command of 

(Signed) "S. P. Heintzelman, 
"Maj. Gcn'l U. S. Vols." 



I27Tn RECIMENT, T. V. ^g 

After muster out, the company was temporarily dis- 
banded, and almost all its members went into various 
regimental organizations in the field for the balance of the 
war. 

An incomplete roster shows that it gave to the service 
of the country two colonels, one lieutenant-colonel, one 
brigade inspector, one adjutant, three majors, eight cap- 
tains, eight first lieutenants, ten second lieutenants, six 
first sergeants , seventeen sergeants, and fourteen cor- 
porals. 

Upon the conclusion of the war, in 1865, the First City 
Zouaves again took its place in the militia of the State of 
Pennsylvania. A few years later, the old Zouave unifonn 
was discarded, a gray one substituted, and the name 
changed to "City Grays." The company has just com- 
pleted the fortieth year of its age. Since the close of the 
Civil War its history has been a remarkable one, and well 
worthy of publication, but that is not to the purpose of the 
foregoing sketch. 

June I, 1901. F. AsBURY Awl. 



30 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 
Roster of Company "A. 



Name. Rank. Muster 

Awl, F. Asbury Captain Aug. 1, 

Bltzer, Johu S 1st Lieut July 30, 

Ensmlnger, John T. 2d Lieut Aug. 1, 

•Maloney, Tboa. P. 1st Scrgt.. July 26, 

Babb, Charles H Sergt July 26, 

♦Fitzpatrlck, Peter Sergt.. July 26, 

LaRue, Lemer Sergt July 26, 

♦Adams, William J... Sergt July 26, 

Gratz, Simon Corp July 26, 

♦Bence, George W Corp July 28, 

Bell, John Corp July 26, 

Thomas J. Mantelle. . .Corp. . July 26, 

Zollinger, Louis F Corp.. July 26, 

♦Sweeney, John H Corp.. July 26, 

♦Dougherty, Osceola Corp.. July 26, 

Pllkay, Joseph J Corp Aug. 1, 

♦Wheeler, Wm. H Mus July 26, 

♦Wheeler, John C Mus July 30, 

Atticks, Oliver Private July 26, 

♦Balthaser, Edw. . .Private July 26, 

Beinhauer, David . . . Private July 28, 

Beinhauer, Peter. . .Private July 28, 

♦Bernheisel, J. H.. Private July 30, 



Bordner, Wm. H Private Aug. 2, 

♦Brandt, John B Private July 26, 



Brown, Charles E.. Private July 26, 



ed in. Remarks. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Colonel 

of the 201st Regt.. P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as First 

Sergeant, Unassigned Infantry 
Company, Emergency, 1863. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Captain 

in the 201st Regt., P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Captain 

201st P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as First 

Lieutenant, 12th Pa. Cavalry. 

'62 .... Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 78th Regt., P. V. De- 
censed. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, Dnasslgned Company, 
Emergency, 1863. 

'62 Re-entered the service as First 

lieutenant, 201st P. V. De- 
ceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cap- 
tain, 4th U. S. Colored Vols. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Private, 

77th P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cap- 
tain, 194th P. V. and 77th P. 
V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Second 

Lieutenant, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, Unassigned Company, 
Emergency, 1863. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 12th Pa. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, Unassigned Company, 
Emergency, 1863. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Musi- 
cian, 201st P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Musi- 
cian, 194th P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 78th P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 4th D. S. Infantry. 
Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 201st P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 201st P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 1st U. S. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 

'62 Mustered out with his Company. 

'62 Re-entered the service as First 

Sergeant, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 
Deceased. 

'62 Deserted December 29, 1862. 




JOHN T. ENSMINGER, 



J.;ili' MMJcir 



l.ii'iili'iiMiil C... -A. 
Mild A. I). C. nil P.i-k 



iL'Tlli Ui'.uiliii'iit. V. V. 
■■ •Jn\^\ Ki-iiiiciil, r. V. 
(lii>r-(ii-ii(.T;il TlidS. J. .Innhiirs Stuff. 



I-iite Miijiir iiiid A. D. C. lUi ni-i};iul!i'i-(;L'iii'i-iil J. K. .Sicgfriod's Staff. 



T27Tn REGIMENT, P. V. 3I 

Roster of Company "A," (Continued). 

Name. Rank. Mustered In. Remarks. 

Carberry, Wm. H.. Private Aug. 1, '62 Re-entered the service as Second 

Lieutenant, 201st P. V. 

Cash, Mark T Private Aug. 1, '62 Re-entered the service as First 

Lieutenant, 201st P. V. 

Charles, Carrol C. Private July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as U. S. 

Government transport service, 
1863-4. 

Chester, Louis P... Private July 20, '02 Re-entered the service as First 

Sergeant, 194th P. V. 

♦Chester, Luther R. Private July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 194th P. V. Deceased. 

•Cook, Henry H... Private July 28, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 45th P. V. Deceased. 

Core, John Private July 28, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 93d P. V. 

♦Culp, James D. . .Private. . .Aug. 5, '62 Died shortly after muster-out. 

Honorably discharged. 

Clendennin, V. C. Private July 31, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 

•Dailey, Benj E. . Private July 30, '02 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 192d P. V. Deceased. 

Day, Peter Private July 28, '02 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 12th Pa. Cavalry. 

Demming, Henry C. .Private July 20, '02 Re-entered the service as First 

Lieutenant and Quartermas- 
ter, 194th P. v., and First 
Lieutenant, 77th P. V. 

Denning, Samuel A. Private.. J"ly 20, '02 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

Ditty, William H.. Private.. Aug- 6, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 201st P. V. 

Demars, Cornel's K. Private.. July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 194th P. V. 

'Ewing, Wilbur F. .Private. ..•• -July 20, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate 1st U. S. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 

►Fagan, William H. Private.. July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 10th U. S. Infantry. 
Deceased. 

►Fenn, George W.. Private.. July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Cap- 
tain, 201st P. V. Deceased. 

fisher Charles Private.. July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 10th U. S. Infantry. 

•Fought, J. Edw. .Private. . July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 201st P. V. Deceased. 

•Garman, Samuel G. Private. . July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 18th Pa. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 

►Gilchrist, H. J Private. . July 26, '62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 20th Pa. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 

'Gowan, Thad. T.. Private.. ■^'^^y 26, '02 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

jross, Wendell Private. .••• •■'^^^* ^' '''2 Re-entered the service as First 

Lieutenant, 201st P. V. 

*Hamill, Samuel M. .Private. .••• -July 20, '62 Re-entered the service as Second 

Lieutenant, 201st P. V. De- 
ceased. 

Elantch, Walter E.. Private.. July 20, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 201st P. V. 

•Heicher, Ira D. .. .Private. .••• -July 29, '62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 20th Pa. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 



32 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "A," (Continued). 



Name. 



Rank. 



Mustered iu. 



Remarks. 



Heller, George W . . Private July 26, 

Hippie, William H.. Private July 29, 

Hoffman, C. B Private July 26, 

*HosaD, Henry Private Aug. 2, 

Hoy, Francis H Private July 26, 

Hyers, George A . . . Private Aug. 6, 

Jack, Joseph D Private.. July 31, 

Jones, Lemuel M. . .Private. . July 29, 

•Lehman, Christian. .Private. . July 29, 

Loy, Albert Private July 28, 

•McClain, Theo Private July 26, 

McClure, John Private.. July 26, 

MeCurdy, Robert. . .Private. . July 29, 

McGowan, Geo. W.. Private.. July 31, 

♦McManus, Wm. H. .Private July 26, 

•Machlin, John W . . Private . . July 26, 

Marquett, John A.. Private.. Aug. 6, 

♦Miller, Samuel C. .Private.. •• -July 26, 

Maler, Christian Private . . July 26, 

Miller, John P Private . . July 29, 

•Olewlne, Albert Private.. July 28, 

Olewine, George Private July 28, 

Ol3en, John S Private Aug. 6, 

Parthamore, Matth's. .Prlv July 28, 

Patterson, Levi H.. Private Aug. 5, 

Pipher, Henry Private July 28, 

Redlf er, Wm. S Private Aug. 5, 

Reed, John F Private July 25, 

Relnhold, Henry L.. Private Aug. 6, 

Rhodes, Joseph E . . Private July 28, 

Rudy, Jonas Private July 26, 



'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral 77th P. V. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'C2 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 79th P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 79th P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 201st P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant. 195th P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Second 

Lieutenant, 201st P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, U. S. Signal Corps. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 201st P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 3d U. S. Cavalry. De- 
ceii.sed. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 91st P. V. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant. 77th P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 20th Pa. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Second 

Lieutenant, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 
Deceased. 

'C2 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate. 93d P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 78th P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Dishonorably discharged October 

22, 1862. 

'62 Deserted August 2, 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, 201st P. V. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral. 201st P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant Major, 192d P. V. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'C2 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Re-entered the service as First 

Lieutenant, 194th P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P, V. 
Roster of Company "A," (Continued). 



33 



Rank. 



Mustered in. 



Name. 
•Raudbaugh, Geo. H. Private July 26, 



Remarks. 



Rudolph, John 

Sample, Alex, M.. 
Sandles, Wm. A.. 

Scheffer, B. Frank. 

Shuman, Luke..... 



'62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, April 10, 1863. Also, 
Private, 7th Pa. Cavalry by 
re-entry Into service. De- 
ceased. 

'62 Deserted August 2, 1862. 

'C2 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant Major, 4th Pa. Cavalry. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 77th P. V. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Third 

Assistant Engineer, U. S. 
Navy. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably di8- 

charged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Cap- 
tain, 78th P. V. Deceased. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 20th Pa. Cavalry. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant Major, 201st P. V. 
■Re-entered the service as Pri- 
vate, Ind. R. R. Pa. Cavalry. 

'62 Re-entered the service as Ser- 
geant, 19th Pa. Cavalry. De- 
ceased. 
62 Re-entered the service as Cor- 
poral, 201st P. V. Deceased. 
■Re-entered the service as Second 

Lieutenant, 194th P. V. 
•Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
•Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

♦Deceased. 

Company A was mustered out of service at Harrlsburg, Pa., on the expiration of its 
term of enlistment. May 8, 186,3. 

Note. — A number of the members of Company A, 127th Regiment, Pa. Vols., who 
had Joined short-term regiments after muster-out in May, 186.'i. upon the expiration 
jf the term, again re-entered the service in "Veteran Volunteer" and other regiments, 
and attained rank different and higher than noted in the foregoing "remarks." 

The "deceased" list is reported up to June 1, 1901. As the dates of death and places 
of burial, in many instances, are not sufficiently well authenticated, they are all 
purposely omitted. 



Snoddy, John 

•Snyder, George N. 
•Swartz, John A . . . 
Swope, Andrew C . 
Vaughn, Robert V. 
Wanger, Heury H . 
♦Whiteside, J. Elton 

♦Windsor, Jesse. . . 
YIngst, Fred'k W. 
Zelgler, Francis A. 
Zimmerman, J. K. 



.Private.. Aug. 1, 

.Private July 28, 

.Private July 28, 

.Private July 31, 

.Private July 28, 

.Private July 31, 

.Private July 28, 

.Private July 26, 

.Private July 22, 

.Private July 31, 

.Private July 29, 

.Private Aug. 5, 

.Private July 26, 

.Private July 26, 

.Private Aug. 1, 

.Private.. Aug. 6, 



'62. 



•62. 
•62. 



COMPANY "B." 



THIS company, designated on the military records 
of the late Civil War as Co. "B," 127th Regi- 
i^^ ment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, was known at 
home as the "Harrisburg Fire Zouaves/' 

On the 5th of August, 1862, J. Wesley Awl, Esq., a 
prominent attorney of the city of Harrisburg, opened a 
recruiting station at his office on the west side of North 
Third street in Harrisburg, and the rolls began to fill up 
immediately. By Wednesday, August 6th, forty-two 
(42) men had signed the roll; on Thursday, eighty-two 
(82) men had enlisted, and on Friday, August 8th, seven- 
ty-six (76) men were mustered into the U. S. service in 
South Market Square. On that evening, (in the rear 
part of Brandt's Hall), an election of officers was held, 
which resulted in the election of J. Wesley Awl as cap- 
tain, A. J. Fager as first lieutenant, and William McCar- 
roll as second lieutenant. 

On Saturday, August 9th, seventy-six (76) men were 
marched out to Camp Curtin, and there pitched their tents. 
On the afternoon of the 9th, fifteen more men were ad- 
ded and sworn into the service of the United States. On 
Friday, August 15th, the new men were given their uni- 
forms; and on the i6th received their guns and accoutre- 
ments, and were afterwards designated Company "B" of 
the 127th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, having 
been mustered into the U. S. Service for nine months. 

Company "B" was composed of a stalwart lot of men, 
most of them from the city of Harrisburg, and others 
from the country surrounding Harrisburg. They were 

34 




J. WESLEY AWL. 

('.•iiihiiii Co. ■■]!.•■ li'Trli Ki^yiniciil. r. V. 

I.iitc Liciili'iiuiil-Ciliiiicl liolsl Itcyi lit, I". V. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 35 

more like a picked body of patriotic men, than a lot of 
men taken haphazard; and during their term of service 
performed their duties willingly and strictly, giving the 
officers very little trouble as regards their discipline; 
while each and all took an interest and pride in the service, 
and an especial pride in the company organization. 

Captain J. Wesley Awl had seen service as a second 
lieutenant of Company "E/' First Regiment, Pennsylva- 
nia Volunteers, in the three months' service in 1861, and 
was a well-drilled, and very efficient officer. 

First Lieutenant A. J. Fager, although not in active 
service previous to this enlistment, had been a member of 
a military company since he was thirteen years old, and 
had drilled Company "G" of the Bucktails, while they lay 
in Camp Curtin in 1861, and received their thanks by the 
unanimous vote of the company. 

Second Lieutenant William McCarroll was an ex-regu- 
lar U. S. soldier, understood the duties of a soldier, and 
had been in active service in the West amongst the In- 
dians, was liked by the men of Company "B," and com- 
manded the respect of his fellow-officers in the company 
and regiment. 

Company "B"' did its whole duty during its term of ser- 
vice; and was justly considered a model company by its 
officers, and stood second to none in the estimation of the 
regimental officers. It was selected upon several occa- 
sions, with its officers, to perform arduous and adventur- 
ous duty, and Company "B" always did it well. 

It was noted for its proficiency in guarding Chain 
Bridge ; and in handling the heavy artillery in Fort Ethan 
Allen. The company performed its full share of picket 
and fatigue duty, and never shirked, or even complained 
of any dvity, either in the camp, on the charge, or steady 



36 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

firing line. Discipline for shirking duty, or insubordina- 
tion was almost unheard of in Company "B," and it was 
the rarest thing to find a member of Company "B" in the 
guard-house. While the officers were strict disciplinar- 
ians, the rank and file were gentlemen, requiring no co- 
ercion. 

There were many conspicuous acts of bravery per- 
formed by this company, and by individual members of 
the company. Among others Private John Y. Bell, dur- 
ing the battle of Fredericksburg, while standing in a fur- 
row that had been washed out by the rain, saw a wounded 
comrade of the First Minnesota Regiment, who was so 
badly disabled that he was unable to use his musket any 
longer; and as Private Bell had exhausted his cartridges, 
he begged the cartridges from his wounded comrade, 
which were generously given up, and Private Bell used 
every one of them in firing at the enemy. 

A. J. Fager. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "B." 



37 



Name. Rank. Mustered 

Awl, J. Wesley Captaiu Aug. 9, 



Fager, Albert J 1st Lieut Aug. 9, 

McCarroU, William. .2d Lieut Aug. 9, 

Bell, Robert F 1st Sergt Aug. 8, 



Chandler, Geo. P Sergt Aug. 8, 

Groff, Jacob Sergt. Aug. 8, 



Carsou, William D Sergt Aug. 8, 

Hynieka, John M Sergt Aug. 9, 

Hyers, William H Sergt Aug. 8, 

McComos, Johu Corp Aug. 8, 

Martin, David C Core Aug. 8, 

Miller, William G Corp Aug. 8, 

Gettys, William Corp Aug. 8, 

Stoufer, David G Corp Aug. 8, 

Rhoades, John Corp Aug. 8, 

Rapp, William R Corp Aug. 8, 

Finnegan, Patrick Corp Aug. 8, 

Wireman, Samuel F Corp Aug. 8, 



Glover, Edward W. 



.Aug. 8, 



in. Remarks. 

'02 Re-entered the service as Lieut. - 

Colonel, 201st Regt., P. V. 
Died at Harrlsburg, March 
2, 1894, and buried in Har- 
rlsburg Cemetery. 

"62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died 1878. Buried 
in Harrisburg Cemetery. 

'G2 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'61: Promoted from Corporal, October 

13, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

'62 Promoted from Corporal, October 

13, 1862. Wounded Battle 
of Fredericksburg, December 
13, 1862. Deceased. 

'62 Promoted to Corporal, October 

13, 1862; to Sergeant, No- 
vember 6, 1862. Served full 
term. Honorably discharged. 

'62 Discharged by special order, Oc- 
tober 14, 1862. 

'62 Promoted to Corporal, October 

13, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died 1879. Buried 
in Cumberland County. 

'62 Died of wounds received in ac- 
tion at ChaucellorsvlUe, May 
4, 1863. 

'62 Promoted to Corporal, January 

30, 1863. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. Died 
September, 1892. 

'62 Promoted to Corporal, October 

13, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. Min- 
ister of the Gospel in Illinois. 

'C2 Promoted to Corporal, November 

9, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. Died 
and buried in Philadelphia, 
July, 1896. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died August 7, 1898. 
Buried iu Cumberland County. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged May 9, 1863, on ex- 
piration of term. 

'62.. .Promoted to Corporal, October 

13, 1862. Died at Washing- 
ton, D. C, January 30, 1863, 
of wounds received at Battle 
of Fredericksburg, December 
13, 1862. Burled In Military 
Asylum Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Entered West Point 
Military Academy, 



38 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 
Roster of Company "B," (Continued). 



Name. 



Rauk. 



Mustered in. 



Remarks. 



Felix, Mordecai Mus Aug. 

Bell, John Y Private Aug. 

Bender, Jacob M Private Aug. 



Bernhisel, John Private Aug. 5, 

Bleyer, Abraham Private Aug. 8, 



Buck, David Private Aug. 



Burnite, David C Private Aug. 



Buck, David J Private Aug. 

Case, William Private Aug. 



Caselow, John H Private Aug. 

Chaffinch, Samuel E. . .Private Aug. 



Creamer, Charles Private Aug. 



Creamer, John Private. • • • • Aug. 



Care, Clement B Private Aug. 



Davis, John W Private. Aug. 



Davis, Joseph Private. • ■ • ■ Aug. 

Dickey, Harry Private. ■ • • ■ Aug. 

DeHaven, Wm. H Private. Aug. 

Eisely, Thomas J Private Aug. 

Gnger, Joseph. ...... .Private. . . . .Aug. 



'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg. 
Buried Harrisburg Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg, 
1873, and buried in Harris- 
burg Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died February 4, 
1897. Buried in Harrisburg 
Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged, 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg, 
1875. Buried in Harrisburg 
Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died in New York, 
August 12, 1887. Burled in 
Harrisburg Cemetery. 
62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg, 
1886, and buried in Harris- 
burg Cemetery. 

'62 Accidentally killed in Camp, Oc- 
tober 1, 1S62. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died December, 1880. 
Buried in Harrisburg Ceme- 
tery. 

'62 Served full tei'm. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Wounded Battle 
Fredericksburg, December 13, 
1862. Died at Harrisburg, 
August 11, 1888. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Promoted to Com.-Sgt., August 

26, 1862. Re-entered the serv- 
ice as Captain. Died and 
buried at Linglestown, Pa. 

'63 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died March, 1890, 
and buried in Harrisburg 
Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, February 16, 1863. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "B," (Continued). 



39 



Name. Bank. 

Faster, Daulel Private. 



Mustered in. 
Aug. 9, 



Forney, John C Private. .... Aug. 



Frank, Charles Private. . 

Gardner, Peter Private.. 



.Aug. 

, . Aug. 



Gra.v, William M Private Aug. 8. 

Hants, Loldeman Privatf Aug. 8, 

Heuning, John H Private Aug. 8, 

Hobbs, Wm. P. H Private Aug. 8, 

Horuiug, John H Private Aug. 8, 



Hocker, Martin Private Aug. 8, 

Jack, James A Private Aug. 8, 



Johnson, Wm. H Private Aug. 



Kissel, 
Kerper, 



Solomon B. ...Private Aug. 

John F Private Aug. 



Remarks. 

'02 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December la, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 

'G2 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg, 
1894. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December lo, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, February 14, 1863. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Rich Island, 
Ills. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg,- 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1S62. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died in California. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg. 

Dec. 13, 1862. Served full 

Honorably discharged. 

Battle Chancellorsvllle, 

3, 1863. Served full 

Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Lescure, Edward P. . ..Private. ■ • ■ -Aug. 8, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Dead. Buried In 
Harrisburg Cemetery. 
Loy, Christian Private Aug. 11, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died, March 21, 
1899. Buried in Harrisburg 
Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died. March, 1890. 
Burled in Harrisburg Ceme- 
tery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died, 1888. Burled 
in Harrisburg Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Krider, Frank Private Aug. 

Lamm, Audie Private. ■ • ■ .Aug. 



Leaman, Nathaniel. . .Private. 



Lebo, John Private. 

Lebo, John R Private. 



...Aug. 8, 

...Aug. 8, 
...Aug. 8, 



term. 

'62 Wounded 

May 
term. 



Lemen, John B Private. Aug. 11, 



Maddock, Thomas. . . .Private. • • • .Aug 
Mather, Francis R... Private Aug, 



Megaughey, Theo Private Aug. 



Meredith, Ross, Jr... Private Aug. 9, 



40 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 
Roster of Company "B," (Continued). 



Mustered in. Remarks. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Columbus, 
1898. 
'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died, April 17, 1901. 
Buried in Uarrisburg Ceme- 
tery. 

Miller, John W Private Aug. 8, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Mytinger, John Private Aug. 8, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died 1888. Buried 
In Harrisburg Cemetery. 
'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died in Indiana, 
1876. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg. 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 

Oglesby, Wash. P Private Aug. 8, '62 Promoted to Hospital Steward, 

August 26, 1863. Served full 



Name. Rank. 

Myers, Marcus Private Aug. 

Miles, George W Private Aug. 



Miller, John H Private Aug. 



Neuer, George H Private Aug. 



Oglesby, Joseph J Private Aug. 

Orth, John Private Aug. 



Parsons, LeRoy Private Aug. 

Pray, George K Private Aug. 



Probst, John 

Quigley, Albert S. 



.Private Aug. 

.Private Aug. 



8, 



Reel, Adam Private. . 

Ritner, John Private. . 

Rogers, Charles M Private.. 



. Aug. 8, 
.Aug. 8, 
.Aug. 8, 



Rudy, Darius E Private. Aug 

Rupp, Jacob Private Aug. 8, 

Saul, Joseph M Private Aug. 8, 

Sawyer, John W Private Aug. 8, 

Seltzer, Peter E Private Aug. 8, 

Shiffler, John Private. 



Shoop, Barney J Private Aug. 8 



Shriver, Cornelius Private Aug. 8; 



Siders, John W Private Aug 



Smith, Jacob Private Aug 

Suydam, Charles A . . . Private Aug 



term. Honorably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Killed on railway 
at Lancaster, December 16, 
1899. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 

•62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died, 1897. Buried 
in Harrisburg Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. 

charged. 

'62 Served full term. 

charged. 

.Aug. 8, '62 Served full term. 

charged. Died, December 22, 
1894. Buried in Harrisburg 
Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died, 1897. Buried 
in Harrisburg Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died December 30, 
1894. Buried in Harrisburg 
Cemetery. 

•62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 
•62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Honorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 



Honorably dis- 



8, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "B," (Continued). 



41 



Name. 
Stetzel, David. 



Rank. Mustered In. 
.Private Aug. 8, '62 Discharged 



Sollers, CbarlGS H. 
Seguer, Aaron 



.Private Aug. 8, 



.Private Aug. 



Thomas, Theo. G. 
Trout, John F 



Vandiver, Jesse M. . 
Varnlck, Charles R. 
Waggoner, Wm. H. 



Walters, George L Private Aug. 8, 



Walters, David... 
Wennel, Wm. H. 



Remarks. 

on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, November 20, 1862. De- 
ceased. 
'62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, March 26, 1863. De- 
ceased. 

'62 Honorably discharged. May 7, 

1863, expiration of term. 
Died at Lykens, 1878. Burled 
there. 
Private Aug. 11, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 
Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Hon. discharged. 
62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died in Chicago, 
1886. 

Private Aug. 8, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Private Aug. 8, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died in Chicago, 
1877. 



, .Private Aug 

, .Private Aug 

. .Private Aug 



8, 



The officers and men of Company "B' 
out of the service May 29th, 1863. 



were mustered 



COMPANY "C. 



T' HE proclamations of the President and the Gov- 
, ernor excited intense interest in Derry and Han- 
J^Mb over townships, and the young farmer boys were 
clamorous for Dr. James Henderson, of Hum- 
melstown, to lead them. The Doctor was in the full tide 
of a lucrative practice. He had the respect of the 
entire community, and the strong appeals made to 
him from the young men of the village and the 
surrounding country determined him to give vent to his 
own patriotic feelings ; and, when Colonel Jennings re- 
quested him to raise a company, he, without hesitation, 
promised to do so, and accepted the leadership, and with 
it the responsibility. The young men from the neighbor- 
hood flocked to his standard, and in a very short while he 
enrolled i8o names, enabling him to make choice for the 
full quota of his company. 

He was delighted with his success, and went to Har- 
risburg and reported to Colonel Jennings, and together, 
they visited the office of Captain Alleman, who was then 
recruiting a company for Colonel Jennings' regiment. 

Captain Henderson stated that he could give Captain 
Alleman all the men he wanted to fill up his company, so 
it was agreed that the men should be sworn into the 
United States service the following day, and all over the 
maximum of a company should be turned over to Captain 
Alleman, to make up the deficit of his company. 

Very much deference was paid to the judgment of Cap- 
tain Henderson in the selection of the subordinate officers 
in the organization of the company. His choice fell upon 

42 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 43 

Christian A. Nissley and William R. Orth as first and sec- 
ond lieutenants, respectively, although Charles D. Wise 
and David Hummel, Jr., had friends supporting their can- 
didacies. 

Captain Henderson felt that he had some claims upon 
Colonel Jennings in the organization of the regiment, and 
suggested that the quartermaster, or adjutant of the 
regiment should be chosen from the Derry Guards, or 
named by him. There being some understanding of that 
kind, the friends of John F. Orth and Charles D. Wise 
and David Hummel, Jr., were willing that the one should 
have a regimental position, and the other two positions as 
first and second sergeant, with the prospect of early pro- 
motion; so the company was duly organized, and on the 
morning of the 5th of August, 1862, Lieutenant H. C. 
Alleman, who had been appointed second lieutenant in the 
Regular Army, went to Hummelstown to muster in Cap- 
tain Henderson's company, and did so to the number of 
148 men. This created great excitement, and the whole 
neighborhood flocked in to witness the ceremony. While 
Lieutenant Alleman made no hesitation in mustering in 
the full body of men, he informed Captain Henderson 
that the maximum number of his company was one hun- 
dred, but the additional forty-eight men insisted upon tak- 
ing their chances of enrollment and muster into the ser- 
vice after passing their physical examination, and taking 
the places of the rejected, or those found to be physically 
disqualified. 

Lieutenant Alleman received a telegram from Colonel 
Jennings ordering Captain Henderson to report himself 
and company at Camp Curtin forthwith. So transporta- 
tion was secured, and the excitement was great. It was 
not expected that the company would be required to go 



44 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

into camp for some days; but on the assurance of Cap- 
tain Henderson that furloughs would be granted them to 
return home and say "good-bye" to their families, they 
expressed themselves satisfied. The 148 sworn men took 
the train for Harrisburg, and marched into Camp Curtin 
with Captain Henderson in the lead ; and Lieutenant Alle- 
man taking charge of the overflow, with those of his com- 
pany, who were at the station to meet them, followed 
into camp. 

The company was composed of good material, and gave 
a good account of themselves, 

Levi F. Heicher. 



127TII REGIMENT, V. V. 
Roster of Company "C." 



45 



Niime. Rank. Mustered iu. 

Henderson, James. .. .Captain Aug. 9, '62... 



Douti-ich. Jacob Sergt. Aug. 9, 

Landls, Levi F Sergt. Aug. 9, 

Greenawalt, Geo. F Sergt. Aug. 9, 



Groffe, Wm. H. D Corp. Aug. 

Buser, Geo Corp. • • • • Aug. 

Bale, John Corp. Aug. 

EUinger, John Corp. .... Aug. 



Gramm, Jonathan Corp. • ■ • -Aug. 

Krlser, Amos Corp.- • • -Aug. 

Shapley, Rufus E Corp. Aug. 

Shellehamer, G. W Corp Aug. 

Bowman, Geo. H Corp Aug. 



Nissley, Christian A. 1st Lieut. Aug. 9, 'G2. 

Orth, Wm. R 1st Lieut Aug. 9, '152. 



Wise, Charles D. ..1st Lieut Aug. 9, 'G2. 



Hummel, David, jr.. 2d Lieut. Aug. 9, '62. 



Bowman, Henry 1st Sergt Aug. 9, 'G2. 



'62. 
'62. 
'62. 



Greenawalt, Samuel ...Sergt. Aug. 9, '62. 



'62. 
'62. 
'62. 
'62. 



'62. 
'62. 
'62. 
'62. 



Remarks. 

.Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
Imrg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. Died. 
Buried iu Hummelstown Cem- 
etery. 

.Promoted to Captain of Company 
I, October 13, 1862. 

.Promoted from Second Lieutenant, 
October 13, 1862. Died Feb- 
ruarj' 23, 1863, from wounds 
at Battle of Fredericksburg. 
Buried iu Hummelstown Cem- 
etery. 

.Promoted from First Sergeant to 
Second Lieutenant, October 
13, 1862; to First Lieutenant, 
February 24. 1863. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
cliarged. Re-entered service 
as Captain in Colonel Alle- 
man's 36th Regiment. Buried 
in Hummelstown Cemetery. 

.Promoted from Sergeant to First 
Sergeant, October 13, 1863; 
to Second Lieutenant, Febru- 
ary 24, 1863. Wounded Bat- 
tle of Chancellorsvllle. Serv- 
ed full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Re-entered service 
as Lieutenant In Colonel Alle- 
man's 3t)th Regiment. Buried 
in Hummelstown Cemetery. 

•Promoted from Sergeant, February 
24, 1863. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

•Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

•Sei'ved full term. Hon. discharged. 

•Promoted from Corporal, February 
24, 1863. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

• Promoted from Private, October 

13, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

• Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

• Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

• Served full term. Hon. discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, November 

7, 1S62. Served full term. 

Honorably discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, Novemljer 

7, 1862. Served full term. 

Honorably discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, February 

24, 1863. Served full term. 

Honorablj' discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, October 13, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.Promoted to Corporal, Janury 7, 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.Discharged January 7, 1863. 



46 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 
Roster of Company "C," (Continued). 



Name. 



Rank. 



ilusteiod iu. 



Remarks. 



Hummel, Jo.s. B. F. . .Musician. 



Hummel, Christian ..Musician. 



Alleman, Isaac Pi-ivate- 

Alleman, Jacob Private- 



Baum, Abram Private . 

Brubaker, David Private. 



Aug. 9, 



.Aug. 9, 
.Oct. 13, 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 



Blessing, John Private. 

Beinbower, Adam ....Private. 



Baer, Andrew Private . 

Blyer, Henry H Private. 



Books, Geo. W. 



Cailey, .John Private . 

Curry, John H Private. 

Cammel, James Private . 

Conrad, Samuel P. . .Private. 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 



. Au^ 
. Aus 



Aug. 9, 



Aug. 9, 

Aug. 9, 

Aug. 9, 

Aug. 9, 



Conrad, John B Private Aug. 9, 



Curry, Joseph Private. 

Demmy, David Private . 

Demmy, Levi Private. 

Etter, Philip W Private. 



Elser, Wm Private . 

Eiseuhour, Elias Private. 

Ellinger, Geo. W Private. 

Early, Thos Private. 

Ebersole, Martin Private . 

Farusler, Jacob Private . 

Fox, Grafton Private . 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 11 
.Aug. 9, 



.Aug. 9 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 



Ferrer, Christian L. . . .Private- . . .Aug. 9, 

Gramm, Samuel Private- .. -Aug. 9, 

Grundon. John Private • • • • Aug. 9, 

Gramm, Frederick ... .Private- •. .Aug. 9, 

Houser, Frederick ... .Private- •. -Aug. 9, 

Heintz, Geo Private Aug. 9, 

Hummel, Daniel Private- -- -Aug. 9, 



Hess, John Private - . - - Aug. 9, 

Hoover, Henry Private- -. -Aug. 9, 

Henderson, Jno. W. . .Private- .- -Aug. 9, 



Heck, Joshua Private .... Aug. 9, 



'02 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried in Hummels- 
town Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried iu Hummels- 
town Cemetery. 

•52 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served until muster-out of Com- 

pau.v. Honorably discharged. 

'62 .Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

't>2 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'(>2 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'tJ2 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried at Steelton. 

'02 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dl.s- 

charged. Burled in Oberland 
Cemetery. 

'62 Discharged February 22, 1862, on 

Surgeon's certificate of disa- 
bility. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. di.scharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. lion, discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried at Steelton. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried at Steelton. 

'62 Discharged Octoljer 24, 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'02 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'02 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'02 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'02 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served f nil term. 

'62 Served full term. 

charged. Buried 
burg Cemetery. 

'62 pipd November 1, 1802. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Died at Harrisburg, Pa., Novem- 
ber 8. 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'02 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried in Hummels- 
town Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried iu Hummels- 
town Cemetery. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Honorably dis- 
in Harris- 



I 27th regiment^ p. v. 
Roster of Company "C," (Continued). 



4; 



Name. Rank. 

Heicher, Levi F Private.. 

Hummel, Ales Private.. 

Hoerner, Geo. W Private . . 



Hamberg, Geo. C. ...Private.. 

Heckamer, Geo. W Private.. 

Hummel, Solomon Private. . . 



Mustered in. 



Remarks. 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 



Hoover, Isaac H Private. • ■ 

Killwell, John H Private.- 

Kerr, Joseph Private. • . 

Kriser, Joseph Private. • ■ 

Kissel, Henry Private. ■ 

Kurtz, Cyrus Private. • 

Longenstine, John Private. . 



.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 



Minnich, Samuel Private Aug. 9, 

Manning, James Private Aug. 9, 



Matlock, Reuben, Jr. .Private. • 

Moser, Henry Private. • 

Marquart, Malone Private. • 

Manning, John Private. • 

Michael, William Private- 

McCloud, Frederick . . . Private. • 
Parthamore, George. . .Private. • 

Painter, Jacob Private. • 

Ranch, Wm. M Private. • 

Ruth, Jacob K Private.- 

Spotts, Israel Private.- 

Sanders, William Private. - 

Shaffer, Jacob Private.- 



Spidel, John Private. • 

Slesser, Christian H.. Private. - 
Spade, Wm. H Private - 



.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 

.Aug. 9, 



'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle of I^redericks- 

burg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg. Discharged honorably, 
for disability, March 28, 1863. 

'62 Discharged February 17, 1863. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Killed at Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, December 13, 1862. 

'62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Died March 9, 1803. 

'62 Killed at Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, December 13, 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged 

'62 -Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 
. Aug. 9, 



Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 
Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried in Highspire 
Cemetery. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 
Honorably dis- 



Stickler, Jacob Private Aug. 9, 

Saltzer, James E Private. Aug. 9, 

Spring, Henry Private. Aug. 9, 

Smeltzer, William Private. Aug. 9, 

Spittler, Jacob Private. Aug. 9, 

Stoner, Jacob Private. Aug. 9, 

Tennis, Samuel Private. Aug. 9, 



Witmer, Eli Private. 

Wolf, George P Private. 

Wagoner, John H Private. 

Yiugst, John Private. 



.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 
.Aug. 9, 



'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

charged. 
'62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'02 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Killed at Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, December 13, 1862. 



48 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

The company was fortunate in securing some of the 
regimental honors: while the company became the 
color company of the regiment, and responsible for 
the colors consigned to the keeping of the color 
guard. Company "C" made a good record. Lieu- 
tenant Christian A, Nissley was promoted to captain of 
Company "I." Lieutenant John F. Orth was made adju- 
tant of the regiment, and afterwards promoted to quar- 
termaster. Sergeants Wise and Hummel were promoted 
to lieutenancies. 

The casualties of the company were great, including 
Lieutenant Orth among the killed. The company was 
mustered out with the regiment on the 29th of May, 1863. 



COMPANY "D." 



DiURING the war of the rebellion there was fully 
as much intrigue, bargaining and chicanery 
^^ practiced in the formation of military companies, 
and the organization of regiments, as prevails in 
the present day in political manipulations, and syndicate 
manoeuvers. 

There were characteristics about this company, prob- 
ably not very dissimilar from many, or most other com- 
panies, yet it had some unique features peculiarly its own, 
stamping its impress upon the general character of the 
regiment. 

Company "D" had its origin in a surprise. On the 
26th of July, 1862, H. C. AUeman, Esq., was sitting at 
his table, in his law office. No. 6, North Third street, in 
Harrisburg, attending to professional business, and while 




CAPTAIN JAMES B. KEENE. 

Captain Co. •■D," 127th Ilryimi'iit. I'. Y, 

Spriiigfleld, Mass, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 49 

I was painting the front of his office, Adjutant William W. 
Jennings, of Camp Curtin, entered the office and intro- 
duced himself. He was the favorite nephew of Colonel 
F. K. Boas, the personal friend and landlord of Mr. AUe- 
man. While they knew of each other, they were person- 
ally unknown the one to the other. Adjutant Jennings 
stated that he had applied to the Governor for authority to 
raise a regiment under the 300,000 call from the Presi- 
dent, and under the proclamation of the Governor, for 
volunteers to serve for nine months, that he had assur- 
ances from the State Executive that he would be appoint- 
ed colonel, on securing ten companies. He said he came 
directly from the Executive Chamber, where he had a 
satisfactory interview with Governor Curtin and Adju- 
tant General Russell, who authorized him to raise a regi- 
ment; and he came straightway, not only to announce 
this fact first to him, but to ofifer him the lieutenant-colo- 
nelcy of the regiment. At this Mr. Alleman very naturally 
expressed very great surprise; when Adjutant Jennings 
stated that he had two good reasons for making the ten- 
der, any one of which should be conclusive. He said he 
wanted to cancel an obligation for very valued and appre- 
ciated services rendered him, unsolicited, at the organiza- 
tion of the Lochiel Grays. He said his second reason was 
merit, and that he felt that he could fully confide in his 
good judgment, and his efficiency as an administrative 
officer. He stated further that his company was growing, 
and that it would soon be recruited to its maximum. 

Mr. Alleman after thanking the adjutant for the very 
high compliment paid him, without a moment's hesitation, 
accepted the offer, on condition that he could render ade- 
quate service ; and proposed to start in at once and recruit 
a company for the regiment. So he wrote a poster an- 



So MEMORIAL HISTORY 

nouncing, that, as Captain, he wanted loo men for ser- 
vice in Colonel Jennings' regiment. The poster was ap- 
proved, and after discussing the several regimental posi- 
tions, and laying plans to secure the other eight compa- 
nies, they went to the office of the "Daily Telegraph," the 
poster was ordered to be printed forthwith, and after an 
interview with the editor, they separated to confer later. 

On that date the "Evening Telegraph" announced that 
Col. W. W. Jennings had been authorized by the Gov- 
ernor to raise a regiment for the nine months' service 
that its formation was an assured success. 

After making complimentary allusions to the colonel, 
the editorial stated that H. C. Alleman, Esq., had been 
appointed a captain, and was recruiting a company at his 
law office for Colonel Jennings' regiment. 

The poster was nailed on the freshly painted shutter of 
the law office that evening, calling for men to enroll under 
his command. While painting, I read the hand-bill and 
said, "I'll join you." I was the first to enroll, and the 
captain made me a recruiting sergeant. I finished the job 
oi painting, and the next day fell to work recruiting, and 
by the end of the day four names were enrolled. Colonel 
Jennings came back to the office daily, and expressed great 
delight at our progress, for each day showed additional 
names, and by the 4th of August, 1862, thirty-four ac- 
cepted men were enrolled. 

Colonel Jennings brought Captain Henderson into Cap- 
tain Alleman's office. He stated that his company was 
more than full, and that he would turn over all the men 
exceeding the maximum to Captain Alleman. He wanted 
his "company mustered into service, and as H, C. Alleman 
had just been appointed second lieutenant. United States 
Army, mustering officer, he, on the fifth of August went 



J2/"ni REGIMENT, P. V. 5t 

to Hummelstown for the double purpose of mustering in 
Captain Henderson's company, and to secure a batch of 
men recruited by Captain Henderson, to fill up his own 
company. Of the i8o men recruited, 148 men were mus- 
tered into the United States service by Lieutenant Alle- 
man ; but every one of the Derry boys wanted to serve un- 
der Captain Henderson. Captain Alleman was greatly 
disappointed, as he fully expected to fill his company 
from the overflow of the Hummelstown company. He 
put his wits to work, made the best of the situation by 
trying to hide his chagrin, hoodwink the public, and con- 
cluded to make a bold show of apparent success. He sent 
two telegrams, one to Colonel Jennings, requesting him 
to order Captain Henderson to report his company forth- 
with at Camp Curtin ; the other to me, to report myself 
and my recruits at the Reading Railway station at Har- 
risburg on the arrival of the afternoon train. There was 
no delay in the telegraphic order from Colonel Jennings, 
which threw Captain Henderson and his men into con- 
fusion. Captain Henderson consulted with Captain Alle- 
man, and they at once seized all of the cars and trucks, 
which, under an order secured from the superintendent, 
were attached to the afternoon train, and the men arrived 
in Harrisburg about three o'clock in the afternoon. These 
148 recruits were formed into column with the thirty- four 
recruits in my charge in their rear, and they, in their 
straggling order looked like a small regiment. Captain 
Henderson headed the column, and Captain Alleman 
placed himself opposite the middle of the column, and so 
marched up Market street, and out Third street, passed 
the two newspaper offices, making, between the sounds of 
the drums and the cheers of the enthusiastic recruits, a 
lot of noise, which attracted the attention of the city edit- 



52 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ors, who announced in the next issue of their respective 
papers, that Captain Henderson had marched into Camp 
Curtin with a full company from Hummelstown ; and that 
Captain Alleman had secured a body of recruits from the 
lower end of the county, and that his Harrisburg recruits 
met them at the station, making his company "about full," 
and they too had marched into Camp Curtin. "Nothing 
succeeds like success." Rumors magnified the thirty-four 
men into three times that number, and the result was that 
men who wanted to enter the service preferred to join a 
company which was nearly full, in preference to a skele- 
ton, so that they would lose no time in getting to the 
front, which was then considered something desirable. 
The following day Captain Alleman's company was "full 
up;" but it was necessary to provide against the contin- 
gencies of physical rejection by the examining surgeons. 
Lieutenant Rufus E. Cable, of Kansas, who had just 
married the daughter of Editor McCurdy, of Harrisburg, 
was anxious to be a captain. He recruited a squad of 
men in Dauphin county ; and Lieutenant William B. Oz- 
mun had a few men, and they both wanted to wear shoul- 
der-straps. It was an open secret that Captain Alleman 
would be promoted to field officer on the organization of 
the regiment; so that ambitious soldiers, looking for 
speedy promotion, were willing to take subordinate posi- 
tions, feeling reasonably sure that promotion would come 
speedily. A dicker was made for consolidation, and Lieu- 
tenant Cable was satisfied with the present rank of first 
Lieutenant. Joshua M. Wesitling, Esq., a Harrisburg law- 
yer, was promised the position of second lieutenant, and 
Augustus L. Chayne was assured the post of orderly ser- 
geant. William B. Ozmun was made second sergeant, and 
I was appointed third sergeant. Marcus Novinger, who 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 53 

brought a small squad from Millersburg, was ambitious 
to be a commissioned officer, and wanted to secure a regi- 
mental position for his friend, Frederick R. Gilbert, and 
by his foresight, saw his chance of success by accepting 
the position of fourth sergeant; so the company was or- 
ganized, numbering an even hundred, composed of 
splendid fighting material, and were mustered into the 
United States service in Camp Curtin on Saturday, the 
9th of August, 1862, and became Company D of the regi- 
ment. 



54 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "D." 

Enrolled at Harrisburg, Pa., by Capt. H. C. Alleman. 
Mustered out of service at Camp Curtln. 

Mustered Mustered 
Name. Eank. in. out. Remarks. 

1862. 1863. 

Alleman, Hiram C Captain. . .Aug. 5 Promoted to Lt.-Col. of the Regi- 

ment, Aug. 16, '62. 

Cable, Rufus E Captain. Resigned Nov. 29, 1862. 

Keene, James B Captain. May 29.. Slightly wounded Battle of Fred- 

ericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862. 
Honorably discharged. 

Cable, Rufus E 1st Lieut. . .Aug. 9 Promoted to Captain, August 19, 

1862. 

Weistling, Joshua M. 1st Lieut. Resigned, Oct. 4, 1862. 

Osman, William B. .1st Lieut. May 29. .Re-entered service and killed in 

one of the Battles of the 
Wilderness. 

Weistling, Joshua M. 2d Lieut. . .Aug. 9 Promoted to First Lieut. Aug. 19, 

1862. 

Osman, William B...2d Lieut. Promoted to First Lieut., Oct. 13, 

1862. 

Chayue, Augustus L. .2d Lieut. May 29. . Promoted to First Lieut, and 

Adjutant, Oct. 13, 1862. De- 
ceased. 

Novinger, Marcus.... 2d Lieut. ... .May 29. .Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 

burg, Dec. 15, 1862. Honor- 

^, ably discharged. Deceased. 

Chayne, Augustus L. 1st Sergt. . .Aug. 5 Promoted to 2d Lieut. Aug. 19, 

1862. 

Osman, William B. . .1st Sergt. . .Aug. 2 Promoted to 1st Sergt., Aug. 19, 

1862, and 2d Lieut., Oct. 4, 
1862. 

Keene, James B 1st Sergt.. .July 29.... Promoted to 1st Sergt., Oct. 12, 

1862, to Captain, Dec. 1, 

X, . 1862. 

Novinger, Marcus. . .1st Sergt.. .Aug. 7 Promoted to 2d Lieut., Dec 1, 

1862. 

Fisler, Luther 1st Sergt.. .Aug. 8 May 29.. Promoted from Corp., Aug. 19, 

1862, to First Sergt., Dee. 1, 
1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Oren, Jesse 2d Sergt.. .Aug. 9 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Putt, WilUam J 3d Sergt. .. Aug. 9 Promoted from Corporal, Oct. 23, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Eckerd, John C 4th Sergt. . .Aug. 8 Promoted from Cornoral, Dec. 1, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Hummel, Charles B.. 5th Sergt... Aug. 5 Promoted from Corporal. Dec. 1, 

1862. Wounded Battle of 
Chancellorsville, May 3, 1863, 
died at Washington, D. C, 
l^Iay 8th, 1863. Buried, Mt. 
Kalma Cemetery, Harrisburg, 
Pa. 

Felty, Joshua B. ..Q.-M. Sergt. ..Aug. 6 May 29.. Promoted to Quartermaster-Sergt,. 

Aug. IS, 1862. Served full 
term. Honorably discharged. 

Pell, James L 1st Corp. . .Aug. 9 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Locker, George W 2d Corp. . . Aug. 5 May 29. .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



I27Tn REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "D." 



55 



Name. 



1862. 



Mustered 

out. 

1863. 
..May 29. 



Williamson, Thos. G . . 3d Corp. . . Aug. 7. 

Lebo, Henry 4th Corp. . .Aug. 5 May 29., 

y eager, William 5th Corp. .. Aug. 4 May 29. 

Steever, Wesley ...6th Corp. ..Aug. 8 May 29. 

Workman, David R.. .7th Corp. . .Aug. 9 May 29. 

Kutherford, Sam. A. .8th Corp. . .Aug. 8 May 29. 

Hoffman, John W Fifer...Aug. 8 May 29. 

Krause, George W. . .Drummer. . .Aug. 8. . . .May 29. 

Atkins, Robert Private. . .Aug. 8.... May 29. 

Anderson, John Private. . . Aug. 9 . . . . May 29 . 

Anderson, Thompson . . Private. . . Aug. 7 . . . . May 29 . 

Bidding, Henry Private. . .Aug. 8.... May 29. 

Boylln, James Private. . . Aug. 5 May 29 . 

Boales, John Private. . . Aug. 6 . . . . May 29 . 

Bomgardner, David. . .Private. . .Aug. 8.... May 29. 

Behm, Daniel Private. . . Aug. 9 May 29 . 

Bitterman, H. Thos. . .Private. . .July 26 May 29. 

Brambaugh, Jas. A. . .Private. . .Aug. 7.... 

Carrichner, John Private. . . Aug. 8 May 29 

Douglas, Ale.xander. . . . Private. . . Aug. 7 . . . . May 29 

Ditry , Conrad Private. . . Aug. 9 May 29 

Drissel, Ned Private. . . Aug. 9 May 29 

Doubert, John Private. . .Aug. 6 May 29 

Emlg, Adam Private. . . Aug. 7 May 29 

Frank, Henry H Private. .Aug. 6 May 29 

Fisher, William Private. . .July 26 May 29 



Remarks. 

Promoted to Corporal, Jan. 13, 
1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 
Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
.Promoted to Corporal. April 1, 
1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, Dec. 1, 
1862. Wounded Battle of 
Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862. 
Honorably discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, Dec. 1, 
1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, Aug. 19, 
1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 
.Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 

.Wounded Battle 

Dec. 13, 1862. 

charged. 

.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
.Served full term. 

charged. 
Died at Washington. D. C, Dec. 
1, 1862. Buried Military Asy 
lum Cemetery. 
..Served full term. Honorably dis 

charged. 
..Served full term. 

charged. 
. .Served full term. 

charged. 
. .Served full term. 

charged. 
. .Served full term. 

charged. 
. .Served full term. 

charged. 
. .Served full term. 

charged. 

. .Served full term. 

charged. 



Honorably dis- 

Honorably dls- 

Honorably dis- 

Houorably dis- 

Honorably dis- 

Honorably dis- 

Fredericksburg, 
Honorably dis- 

Honorably dis- 

Honorably dis- 

Honorably dls- 



Houorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dls- 
Honorably dis- 



56 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "D," (Continued). 

Mustered Mustered 
Name. Rank. in- out. Remarks. 

1862. 1863. 

Foster, Benjamin R. . .Private. . .Aug. 9 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 

cate, April 27, 1863. 

Feint, Frantz Private. . .July 31 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 

cate, April 6, 1863. 

Good, Jacob Private. . . Aug. 6 May 29. . Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Gallagher, John Private. . .Aug. 8 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hildebraud, Thaddeus. Private. ..Aug. 6 May 29.. Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1863. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Heim, Levi Private. . .Aug. 6 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Heilhecker, Louis Private. . .Aug. 7 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Heckert, Frederick Private. .. Aug. 9 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hoffman, John Private. . .Aug. 9 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Harper, James A Private. . .Aug. 6 Died at Washington of Black 

small-pox, Sept. 11, 1862. 
Burled Military Asylum Ceme- 
tery. 

Jury, Daniel Private . • Aug. 9 May 29 . . Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kanerk, Michael Private. •• Aug. 6 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Klingler, John Private.- Aug. 9 May 29. .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Klapp, Henry Private. .. Aug. 9 May 29. .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Keener, Jacob Private. .. Aug. 7 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Leepard, Joseph Private. . .Aug. S May 29. .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Leepard, Wm. L Private. .. Aug. 6 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Lane, Moses Private. . .Aug. 1 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Lehman, Emanuel Private. . .Aug. 9.... May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Lehman, Jacob Private. . .Aug. 9 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Leeser, Wilhelm Private. . .Aug. 8 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 

cate, Feb. 26, 1863. 

Lentz. John Private. .. Aug 7 Killed Battle Fredericksburg, 

Dec. 13, 1862. Burled on 
battlefield. 

Leitzel, Elias Private. . .Aug. 9. . . . Died from wounds Battle of Fred- 

ericksburg, Dec. 17, 1862. 
Buried Military Asylum Cem- 
etery, Washington, D- C. 

Moltz, John J Private. .. Aug. 5 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Michael, Lorenzo Private. . .Aug. 8 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Miller, Joseph Private. .. Aug. 8 May 29.. Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



I27TH REGIMENTj 
Roster of Company "D," 

Mustered Mustered 
Name. Rank. in- out. 

1862. 1863. 

Myers, B. John Private. . . Aug. 9 May 29 . 

Miller, John W Private. . .Aug. 9 May 29. 

Messner, David Private. • -A^US- 9 M*y 29. 

Matter, Peter Private.- -July 31 May 29. 

Martz, Henry A Private. ■ -Aug. 9 May 29. 

McFadden, John Private. •• Aug. 1 May 29. 

McCarroll, Charles Private. - - -luly 28 May 29 . 

Poist, George W Private, ■ • Aug. 8 May 29 . 

Polm, Michael Private. - Aug. 9 May 29. 

Poticher, John Private - Aug. 9 May 29 . 

Patterson, John R. .. .Private- --^"S- 6 May 29. 

Potiger, Jonathan Private- -Aug. 8 May 29. 

Potiger, Daniel Private • - Aug. 6 May 29 . 

Pyett, James Private - - July 26 

Rice, Edward Private - - Aug. 1 May 29 . 

Rhlnehart, Ephraim . .Private- -Aug. 2 

Rlchner, John Private- -Aug- 9 

Sneeder, John Private - - Aug. 8 . . . . May 29 . 

Shepler, Uriah Private- -Aug. 7 May 29. 

Steele, Joseph Private. -Aug. 7 May 29. 

Smoke, Jacob Private - - Aug. 9 May 29 . 

Sleg, Samuel Private- -July 26 May 29. 

Sieg, Peter Private. .July 28 May 29. 

Timlney, L. Charles . .Private. .Aug. 6 May 29. 

Uhler, George Private- -Aug. 8 May 29. 

Urich, Benjamin Private. .Aug. 8 May 29. 

Umholtz, Isaac Private. .Aug. 9 May 29. 

Updegrove, John Private. .July 29 May 29. 

e 



P. V. 

(Continued). 



57 



Remarks. 



Fredericksburg, 
Honorably dis- 



. Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 
Dec. 13, 1862. Honorably 
discharged. 

Wounded Battle 
Dec. 13, 1862. 
charged. 

■Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

■Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

• Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

■Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Wounded Battle Chancellorsville, 
May 3. 1863. Served fuU 
term. Honorably discharged. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 
Dec. 13, 1862. Served full 
term. Honorably discharged. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Absent since March 19, 1863. 

Detailed as teamster, Aug. 18, 
1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Killed Battle Fredericksburg, 
Dec. 13. 1862. Buried on 
battlefield. 

Absent since Sept. 29, 1862. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 

Served full term, 
charged. 



Honorably dis- 
Honorably dls- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dls- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dis- 
Honorably dls- 
Honorably dla- 



58 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "D," (Continued). 



Name. 

Walmer, Noah A. 
Witman, John B. , 
Witman, Franklin , 



Bank. in. 

1862. 
. .Private. .Aug. 5 

.. .Private. .Aug. 8 

.. .Private. .Aug. 9 



Mustered Mustered 
in. out. 



Yelkey, Charles Private . . Aug. 4 

Zitch, Moses Private . . Aug. 6 



Remarks. 



1863. 



..May 29.. Served full term. Honorably 

charged. 
..May 29.. Served full term. Honorably 

charged. 
..May 29.. Served full term. Honorably 

charged. 
..May 29.. Served full term. Honorably 

charged. 
..May 29.. Served full term. Honorably 

charged. 



dis- 
dis- 
dis- 
dia- 
dis- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 59 

Company "D" was fortunate in the distribution of regi- 
mental prizes, securing the lieutenant-colonel, the adju- 
tant, and the quartermaster, and afterwards the sutler. 
There were more promotions in Company "D" than in 
any other company of the regiment ; and it had the unique 
distinction of having one of its non-commissioned ofificers 
make a triple jump over the heads of both lieutenants into 
the captaincy, without a single protest or even murmur; 
marking it as a model in military discipline. 

As a further evidence of its vigilance, discipline and 
faithfulness in executing orders, wdiile on duty at Chain 
Bridge, as sergeant of the guard, I was called to decide 
the case of a soldier on horseback, who appeared without 
the countersign. The night was dark, the hour late, but 
the orders were imperative not to allow any one to cross 
the bridge without the countersign ; so I invited the rider 
to dismount, which he did with grace and dignity, and 
was placed under guard, where he remained during the 
night. In the morning it was discovered that he was a 
General officer in the Union army, and was accordingly 
allowed to ride over the bridge and return to his quarters ; 
yet he never either preferred a charge, or even murmured 
at his treatment; but on the contrary, complimented the 
sergeant of the guard for faithfully and indiscriminately 
executing orders. 

This company furnished three of the gallant band un- 
der Porter Buchanan of Company "F", who volunteered 
and crossed the Rappahannock in boats, and drove the 
Confederate sharp-shooters from their intrenchments on 
the southern bank of the river in Fredericksburg. 

Company "D" suffered in the casualties of war, as 
much, if not more than any of the regimental companies, 



6o MEMORIAL HISTORY 

and made for itself a proud and enduring military rec- 
ord. 

The company was loyal to its officers, and on the mus- 
ter out of the regiment, its members contributed a hand- 
some fund, purchased and presented its first captain with 
a magnificent sword, with a pure Damascus blade, on 
which is emblazoned the name, "Lieutenant-Colonel H. C. 
Alleman." The handle of the sword is of solid silver, 
with a gold guard, and a scabbard of exquisite beauty, 
with solid gold mountings. On the scabbard is a polished 
plate, on which is engraved, "Presented to Lieutenant- 
Colonel H. C. Alleman by the non-commissioned officers 
and privates of Company "D", of the 127th Regiment, 
P. v., as a token of esteem." This was presented at 
Camp Curtin by Lieutenant J. M. Weistling, in the pres- 
ence of Governor Porter, General Beaver, and a large as- 
semblage of military officers and distinguished citizens, 
and the donors expressed the wildest delight in thus hon- 
oring their old commander. 

Colonel PL C. Alleman proved himself worthy of the 
great distinction which was conferred upon him, and 
performed his duties with marked ability and enviable 
credit throughout the entire service. His ability as a 
lawyer eminently fitted him for a wise counsellor, and a 
just and impartial judge. He was kind and quiet in man- 
ner; but dignified and invariably strict in discipline. He 
was brave under fire, and always courageous under the 
most trying circumstances, which won for him the confi- 
dence, the esteem and the love of those who were under 
his command. James B. Keene. 




CAPTAIN LORENZO L. GREENAWALT, 
CiililMiii (.'u. -'i;," IJTlli KcgiiiLciU, 1'. V. 



COMPANY 



T""^" HE War of the Rebellion had been in progress for 
^ more than fifteen months. More men were 
^^^ needed to fill up the rapidly depleting ranks of 
the Union Army, and for this purpose Presiden 
Lincoln called for more troops. 

On the 2 1st day of July, 1862, Governor A. G. Curtin 
issued a proclamation calling on the citizens of Pennsyl- 
vania for twenty-one more regiments of ten companies 
each to serve for nine months, making the quota of Leba- 
non county two companies. 

Lebanon county had nobly responded to former calls 
for soldiers, notably the 93rd Regiment, P. V. organized 
at Lebanon, Pa., eight months previously; others had 
joined the Pennsylvania Reserves, the 4th Pennsylvania 
Cavalry, and many other regiments, aggregating at least 
1,000 men, but greater sacrifices were still necessary. 

On Friday morning, August 8th, 1862, S. H. Guilford, 
Lemuel Moyer, D. W. Miller, S. H. Bentz, J. L. Rise, John 
Reinoehl and some others, all of Lebanon, started out to 
raise a company of volunteers, under the above call. They 
visited Lorenzo L. Greenawalt, a tanner, a native of Leb- 
anon, in his tannery, and obtained his consent to attend 
the mass meeting to be held in the Court House on the 
evening of that day, for the purpose of encouraging en- 
listments, with a view of making him captain of the pro- 
posed company, to be known as the Greenawalt Guards. 
The young men were active the balance of the day in mak- 
ing the meeting a success, and it was well attended. Rev. 
Dr. Henry Harbaugh was chosen as the presiding officer 
of the meeting. Patriotic addresses were delivered by 
the president, and by L. L. Greenawalt, John T. Schuler, 

61 



62 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Charles B. Forney, and others, calling on the young men 
of the county to offer their services and their lives to our 
beloved country, and many signed the roll as recruits. 

On the following day, Saturday, the roll was signed 
by more than one hundred, and it was understood that L. 
L. Greenawalt was to be the captain of the company. The 
evening train for Harrisburg carried about 132 enlisted 
men who were willing to form a company. We arrived 
at Harrisburg and were quartered at the State capitol 
building, some sleeping in the corridor, some on the steps, 
and others on the ground surrounding; to most of the 
boys this was a strange experience. We remained arounc 
the capitol the next day and night, many attending 
church service and Sunday-school during the day, and in 
the evening attended in a body the First Presbyterian 
church. 

On the next day, Monday, we marched to Camp Curtin, 
and preparations were made to form the company organi- 
zation. Up to this time we had been supplied with pro- 
visions so kindly furnished by the patriotic ladies of Leb- 
anon sent to us daily, as we could not yet draw any ra- 
tions. The physical examinations being very stringent, 
and also on account of the recruits being under the re- 
quired age, many were rejected. After being mustered 
and sworn into the service of the United States by Cap- 
tain Tarbutton on August 13th, 1862, L. L. Greenawalt 
was elected the captain of the company, William P. Car- 
many first lieutenant, and Joseph A. Bowman second 
lieutenant. These ofificers were elected by acclamation by 
the company, all seeming to be satisfied that no mistake 
had been made in the selection of commissioned officers. 

The regimental organization was formed several days 
later, and as to subsequent service the history of the regi- 
ment is the history of the company. 




LIEUTENANT JOSEPH A. BOWMAN, 

.Scooiul Licutciiiint Co. '■E," 12Ttli Kegimcul, I". V. 

Morehaut, 

Lt'lmiion, I*a, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 63 

Roster of Company "E." 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. Remarks. 

Greenawalt, Lorenzo L.. .Capt. .. .Aug. 14, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. 
Musted out witli Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Carmany, Wm. P...l8t Lieut .... Aug. 14, '62 Wounded Battle of Chancellors- 

ville. May 3, 1863. 
Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Bowman, Joseph A... 2d Lieut Aug. 14, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Stein, Jacob J. ..1st Sergt Aug. 13, "62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Brooks. John C 2d Sergt Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Kale. John P 3d Sergt Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
LiKht. Jefferson B..4th Sergt Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Allwein. F P 5th Sergt Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Moyer. Lemuel Corp Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Carmany, Adam Corp. Aug. 13, '62 Wounded and Missing in action. 

Battle of Fredericksburg, 

Dec. 13, 1862. Probably died 

on field. 
Reinoehl, John Corp. Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
George, David S Corp Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Henry, Reuben Corp Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
Raber, Samuel P Corp Aug. 13, '62 Promoted to Corporal, Dec. 29, 

1862. Mustered out with 

Company, May 29, 1863. 
Kleiser. John Corp Aug. 13, '62 Promoted to Corporal. Dec. 29, 

1862. Mustered out with 
Company, May 29, 1863. 

Bentz, Samuel H Corp Aug. 13, '62 Promoted to Corporal, March 8, 

1863. Mustered out with 
Company, May 29, 1863. 

Schuler, John L Corp Aug. 13, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 
cate, Feb. 28. 1863. 

Buck. Ellas Mus Aug. 13, '62 Promoted to Musician, Sept. 29, 

1862. Mustered out with 
Company, May 29, 1863. 

Stroh, Philip L Mus Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Albert, John N Private Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Arnold, Anthony S... Private Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Barry. Henry A Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Bender, Rieuben Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Bomberger, John K. .Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Boyle, John Private Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

Brandt, Isaac Private Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 



64 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 



Roster of Company "E," (Continued). 



Name. 
Brooks, George T. 



Rank. 
. Private 



Mustered In. 



Remarks. 



Brown, Henry A Private 

Burd, Levi Private 

Bomberger, Edwin . . Private 

Byle, Franklin Private 

Capp, Levi Private 

Carpenter, Aaron S. ..Private 
Darkes, Tobias Private 

Deininger, Jerome B.. Private 

Dutter, Henry S. . . Private 

Ebrigbt, Henry Private 

Eby, Peter Private 

Fisher, Josiab Private 

Forster, Howard ....Private 

Prantz, Cbarles S. ..Private 

Garrett, Daniel M. . . Private 

Gasser, Cyrus M. ...Private 

Gates, James Private 

George, Cyrus S Private 

Gerberlcb. Edw. W . . Private 

Gerberleb, Allen D... Private- 
Gerhard, John P Private 

Gilbert, Ephralm O.. Private 

Groff, John Philip . .Private 

Gross, John H Private 

Guilford, Simeon H.. Private 

Haage, Frederick Private 

Hanson, Hans P Private 

Harmon, William F.. Private 

Hauck, Samuel, Jr Private. 



..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
..Aug. 13, '62 Discharged, March 25, 1863. for 

wounds received Battle of 

Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862. 
...Aug. 15, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Accidentally wounded, Dec. 12, 

1862. Mustered out with 

Company, May 29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29. 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 
cate, March 31, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 15, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, |62 Died, November 3d, 1862. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29. 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 
...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "E," (Continued). 



65 



Name. Rank. 
Hess, George W Private . 

Hunslcker, John Private. 

Kleffer, Daniel O Private . 

Keller, William Private. 

Keller, Harrison ....Private. 

Kleeman, John Private. 

Kalo, Charles Private. 

Kreider, Reuben ....Private. 
Krelrter, Uriah Private. 

Kurtz, John M Private- 

Lantz, Cyrus R Private • 

Light, Asaph S Private • 

Loeb, John H Private • 

Miller, Andrew S Private- 
Miller, David W Private . 

Mutch, John G Private. 

Moyer, William ....Private- 
McNair, Franklin, L.. Private. 
McKnlght, Philip ...Private. 
Patschke, Charles F.. Private. 

Peffley, Jacob Private - 

Peters, Jr., Samuel ..Private- 
Rise, George D Private - 

Rise, Jacob L Private. 

Reinoehl, David C Private . 



Mustered in. 
.Aug. 1.3, '62. . 



Remarks. 



Mustered out with Company, May 
29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 15, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 15, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Muster- 
ed out with Company, May 
29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, 62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Muster- 
ed out with Company, May 
29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, 'C2 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. 
Mustered out with Company, May 
29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '02 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dee. 13, 1862. Absent 
in hospital, at muster-out. 
Honorably discharged. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Va., Dec. 13, 1862. 
Discharged on Surgeon's Cer- 
tificate, April 9, 1863. Died, 
July, 1901. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 



66 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 
Roster of Company "E," (Continued). 



Name. Rank. 

Kedman, Henry Private . 

Robeson, Augustus ..Private. 

Schuler, Jacob T Private . 

Seltzer, John K Private. 

Shank, Samuel Private. 

Sherer. Justus Private. 

SherK, C. Penrose ..Private. 
Shepps, Nicholas A. ..Private. 

Shirk, Samuel S Private. 

Shugar, Baltzar Private. 

Smith, Jacob F Private. 

Spangler, John B Private. 

Strlckler, Peter G Private. 

Smith, John Private . 

Thome, Charles V Private. 

Uhler, John C Private . 

Umberger, John P Private. 

Zimmerman, Joseph ..Private. 



Mustered in. 



Remarks. 



..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 15, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Mustered 
out with Company, May 29, 
1863. 

..Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29. 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29. 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Mustered out with Company, May 

29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Muster- 
ed out with Company, May 
29, 1863. 

...Aug. 13, '62 Died, Jan. 8, 1863 of wounds re- 
ceived Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. 



127X11 REGIMENT, P. V. ^y 

It was very noticeable that there was, at all times dur- 
ing the service more than ordinary companionship exist- 
ing between Captain Greenawalt of our company, and 
Colonel W. W. Jennings of the regiment. We do not 
claim that the men of Company "E" did more than their 
duty, but we do claim that that duty was at all times 
cheerfully and well done. As was demonstrated on the 
morning of the 5th of May, 1863, while the Union Army 
was evacuating Fredericksburg, after the battle of Chan- 
cellorsville, Company "E" was on out-post duty, with 
Corporal John Reinoehl in charge of Company "E's" 
Squad of Videttes, while the last of the troops were cross- 
ing the pontoons at the Fredericksburg crossing, Cor- 
poral S. H. Bentz, of Company "E" was detailed to with- 
draw the Videttes in the face of the enemy and bring them 
across the pontoon, which service he performed without 
the loss of a man, just reaching the bridge as it was swung 
loose from the enemy's side of the river. 

Of Captain L. L. Greenawalt it must be said that he 
was an ideal soldier, of splendid physique, brave as a lion, 
gentle and kind as a father to his men. Never on the 
march or in camp was he known to retire at night until he 
had first made the rounds among his men to see that they 
w^ere comfortably situated, or as comfortable as the cir- 
cumstances would permit. He was a California '49-r, had 
made the trip overland more than once, and hence knew 
perfectly the needs of men exposed to the summer and 
winter exposures of the soldier's life. 

The boys of Company "E" were mostly under the age 
of 21 years at the time of the enlistment, free from vices 
of any kind, and there was not a man of intemperate hab- 
its in the company. All of the ninety-nine men were resi- 
dents of Lebanon county at the time of enlistment ; some 



68 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

came from the colleges and schools ; some from the farms 
and work shops, some from stores and offices, and seven- 
teen had been engaged in the profession of teaching 
school. All of them from the best and oldest families in 
the county. Their character as soldiers may be better un- 
derstood when the record is examined, showing that there 
was not a single desertion from the company during their 
entire service. 

From the time, (May 6th), the regiment returned to 
liarrisburg. Company "E" were engaged in provost and 
guard duty, until May 29th, when they were mustered 
out of the service, and were paid on Saturday, May 30th, 
at Harrisburg, and returned to Lebanon the same after- 
noon, where they were met at the depot by the Union 
League of Lebanon, headed by the Perseverance band. 
They marched through the principal streets, and halted 
in front of the Court House, where an address of welcome 
was given by Hon. John W. Killinger, and then were 
taken to the Court House yard, where a fine collation was 
served by the ladies of Lebanon and the Loyal Union 
League. After the banquet. Rev. Dr. Harbaugh made an 
address which was responded to by Captain Greenawalt, 
followed by six cheers for the captain, and the boys then 
returned to their homes. C. R. Lantz. 



:i!?*. 



n 




CAPTAIN W. H. HUMM£L. 

('.■ipl;iiii Co. "F.-' 127th Kcsinicnl, I'. V. 

Lniiilii'r Morrliiiiit, 

Anburu, 111. 



COMPANY "F: 



fwTTlHEN the call was issued for men to serve in the 
I W I army for nine months, a number of members 
t^^l connected with the Hope Engine Company, No. 
2, of Harrisburg, banded together for the pur- 
pose of organizing a company under that call. W. H. 
Hummel and Thomas G. Sample were the prime movers, 
both being members of the Hope Company. Some 
twenty-eight members of the fire company enrolled, and 
a recruiting office was opened. In a short time the enroll- 
ment progressed until nearly its full complement of men 
were secured, some coming from the other fire companies 
of the city. 

The competition for recruits by the different compan- 
ies organizing at Harrisburg was very keen, as each com 
pany desired to be the first to secure the maximum num- 
ber of a company organization. 

A few days after the recruiting office was opened, John 
T. Morgan, of West Fairview, Cumberland county, came 
along with sixteen or eighteen men, expressing a willing- 
ness to join and fill up the ranks of the company, provides 
they were given due recognition. Both Hummel and 
Sample agreed that Morgan should be made second lieu- 
tenant, and with that agreement, the roster was about 
filled. A meeting of the company was then held, and by 
general consent the c;ptcincy was offered to William \^ 
Jennings, who was then adjutant of Camp Curtin. He 
accepted and was duly elected captain; W. H. Hum- 
mel was elected first lieutenant, and John T. Morgan sec- 
ond lieutenant. Captain Jennings then appointed Thomas 
G. Sample the first sergeant. The company went into 

69 



70 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Camp Curtin, and was mustered into the United States 
service on the 6th of August, 1862. 

At ihe organization of the regiment, Captain Jennings 
was made Colonel; when Lieutenant Hummel was then 
elected captain; Second Lieutenant Morgan was elected 
first lieutenant, and Sergeant Sample was elected second 
lieutenant of the company. 

On the alphabetical designation of the several compa- 
nies of the regiment, this company became officially known 
as Company "F" of the 127th Regiment; and as Company 
"A" was detached, it became the right of the regiment, 
and with Company "D" formed the first division of the 
regiment. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "F." 



71 



Name. Rank. 
Jennings, Wni. W Capt. 



Hummel, W. H Capt 

Morgan, John T....lst Lieut.... 

Sample, Thos. G 2d Lieut 

Sauto, Andrew Ist Sergt 

Mc Williams, John ....Sergt... 

Smith, Thomas G Sergt 

McCormick, Alex Sergt. 

Maglauchlin, W. J Sergt. 

Reed, Wm. W Sergt. .. . 

Campbell, P. A Corp. 

Shanklin, James L Corp. . . , 



Rupply, Abram Corp. . . 

Martin, Daniel E Corp. . . 



McConnell, Isaac Corp. 

Shamberger, O. F Corp. 

Powell, Ellis D Corp. 

Knighton, Wm. C Corp. 



Boas, Irvine S. 



.Mus. 



Krause, William A. ...Mus... 

Able, Jacob Private . . 

Albright, John Private.. 

Alberson, Geo. W. ..Private.. 
Antes, Emery J Private.. 



Mustered in. Remarks. 

.Aug. 6, '62 Promoted to Colonel, August 16, 

1862. 

.Aug. 6, '62 Promoted from 1st Lieut., Aug. 

19, 1862. Served full term, 
and honorably discharged. 

.Aug. 6, "62 Promoted from 2d Lieut., Aug. 

19. 1862. Served full term 
and honorably discharged. 

.Aug. 6, '62 Promoted from 1st Sergt., Aug. 

19, 1862. Served full term, 
and honorably discharged. 

.Aug. 4, '62 Promoted from Sergeant, Aug. 

19, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

.July 31, '62 Promoted from Private, Aug. 6, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.Aug. 5, '62 Promoted from Corporal, Aug. 14, 

1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

.July 31, '62 Promoted from Corporal, Dec. 14. 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.Aug. 5, '62 Promoted from Corporal, Aug. 19, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Aug. 2, '62 Promoted to 1st Lieut, Company 

I, Dec. 14, 1862 

.Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorable dis- 
charged. 

.Aug. 2, '62 Promoted to Corporal, Dec. 24, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

.Aug. 5, '62 Promoted to Corporal, Sept. 9. 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

.July 31, '62 Promoted to Corporal, Oct. 9, 

1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

.July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dls- 

, charged. 

.July 31, '62 Promoted to Corporal, March 14, 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

.Aug. 4, '62 Made Regimental Clerk. Served 

full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

.July 31, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 
cate, Dec. 17, 1862. 

.July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

.July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

.July 31, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

.Aug. 5, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13. 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



y2 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "F," (Continued). 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. Remarks. 

Armstrong, Jas. G. . .Private. .. .Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Able William Private Aug. 5, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 
cate, Dec. 12, 1862. 

Buchanan, Porter Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Houorably dis- 
charged. 

Bingamon, Abncr Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Houorably dis- 
charged. 

Bowsman, Geo. W Private July 31, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Burke, David Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Brown, William Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Bettleyoun, Eman'l. . .Private July 31, '62 Killed Battle of Fredericksburg, 

Dec. 13, 1862. 

Brown George Private July 31, '62 Deserted, September 30, 1862. 

Carpenter, Jacob Private .... Aug. 1, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Colver John W Private Aug. 2, '62 Wounded Battle of Frederlcks- 

^ burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Hon- 

orably discharged. 

Conklin, Geo. H Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Corl, Geo. V Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Crandill, Edwin Private Aug. 4, '62 Died, Dec. 23, of wounds received 

Battle of Fredericksburg, 
Dec. 13, 1862. 

Cummings, John H. ..Private Aug. 2. '62 Deserted, August 30, 1862. 

Dean, George H Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

DeHaven, John Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Houorably dis- 
charged. 

Donahower, John F. ..Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Donnelly, John A. ...Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Dunlap, Samuel R. ..Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Dunlap, James G Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Elliott, James A Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Fanning, Robert G. ..Private Aug. 1, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Forster, Thomas Private Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Forster, James Private Aug. 16, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Floyd, James B Private Aug. 6, '62 Honorably Discharged, Feb. 13, 

1863, for wounds received 
Battle of Fredericksburg, Dec. 
13, 1862. 
Gilman, Jacob P Private Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Gross, John Private Aug 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Hebelson, Jacob ....Private Aug. 1, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 73 

Roster of Company "F," (Continued). 

Name. Rank. Mustered In. Remarks. 

Hebelson, John Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Heck, William M. ..Private Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Heck, Andrew J Private Aug. 4, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Henry, William H. ..Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hill, Alexander T Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hogan, James Private. .. .Aug. 1, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Houser, William Private Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hughes, Matthew Private Aug. 1, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hunter, John D Private Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hoover, Benjamin ..Private Aug. 5, '62 Died of wounds received Battle 

of Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 
1862. 

Hillyer, Henry Private Aug 2. '62 Died at Harrisburg, Aug. 11, '62. 

Irvine, James B Private. .. .July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Jones, Richard Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Jones, Horace B Private Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kline, Jacob Private Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kelley, James F. P.. Private Aug. 5, '62 Discharged, Jan. 27, 1863. 

Lloyd, Garrett Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Lucker, Edward Private Aug. 1, 62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Martin, William H Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Maglaughlin, Jac. J... Private Aug. 5, 62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 

-. , - , „ charged. 

Meyer, Frantz Private. .. .July 31, 62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Miley, John H Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Minich, Henry Private. .. .July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Mitchell, Joseph J. . .Private. .. .Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 

charged. 

Montgomery, J., Sr. . .Private. .. .Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Mauikowski, W. V. . .Private. .. -July 31. '62 Discharged on Surgeon's Certifi- 

, „ cate, Dec. 27, 1862. 

M Gowan, Henry, Jr... Private.... Aug. 5, 62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Poist. Jacob Private. .. .July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Piatt, Levi Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
f 



74 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "F," (Continued). 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. Remarks. 

Rohrer, Abner Private. .. .July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Rowland, Robert B. . .Private. .. .Aug. 2, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Rutter, Jacob Private. .. .Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Swartz Martin Private July 31, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Hon- 
orably discharged. 
Santo, John D Private. .. .July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Sanders, Emanuel R.. Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Sheafer, Warren J Private Aug. 5, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Sloan, David Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
SoUers, James W Private July 31, '62 Wounded battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dee. 13. 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Stephens, Dennis Private July 31, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 15. 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Swartz, Andrew Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably die- 

charged. 

Small, Charles H Private July 31, '62 Promoted Sergt.-Major, Aug. 

18, 1862. 

Schroder, Frantz Private July 31, '62 neserted, August 9, 186Z. 

Shafer, Henry Private July 31, '62 Deserted, August 9, 1862. 

Dtzs, John S Private Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Weber, Henry Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Wells, Samuel Private. .. .July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Winebrenner, M. H.. Private Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Youse, Henry Private July 31, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Zarker, John B Private Aug. 4, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



12/TH REGIMENT, P. V. 75 

Immediately after the battle of Fredericksburg, in De- 
cember, 1862, Company "F" was assigned to special duty 
at General O. O. Howard's headquarters in Falmouth; 
and it, together with Company "F" of the First Minne- 
sota Regiment, were under the immediate command of 
Captain Farrell. It remained on special duty until the 
8th of May, '63, when it was relieved at its own request, 
returned to the regiment, and was mustered out with it at 
Harrisburg on the 29th of May, 1863. 

Company "F" furnished the colonel, the sergeant-major 
of the regiment ; and Sergeant William W. Reed was pro- 
moted to second lieutenant of Company "I," and Musician 
Irvin S. Boas was promoted to regimental clerk. This 
company was distinguished in furnishing Porter Buchan- 
an as the leader of the volunteers from the regiment oi 
the "Forlorn Hope," who gallantly drove Barksdale's 
Bharpshooters from their entrenchments, and enabled the 
engineers and the pontoniers to complete the pontoon 
bridges. 

The casualties of Company "F" were comparatively 
light. Three were killed, nine were wounded, while sev- 
eral others of the company were slightly wounded; but 
remained on duty without reporting any disability. 

Thos. G. Sample. 



COIVIPANY "G.' 



TTIAPTAIN JOHN J. BALL was drill master at 
^^ Camp Curtin, and on request of Adjutant Jen- 
^^^ nings, he determined to fomi a company for the 
regiment, which Colonel Jennings was author- 
ized to raise. So he and Lieutenant George Hynicka 
erected a tent in Market Square, in the city of Harrisburg, 
between the two market houses, and went vigorously to 
work to recruit the "Dauphin Guards,'^ which afterwards 
became Company "G" of the 127th Regiment. 

Lieutenant Hudson Denny, of Meadville, Pa., came to 
Camp Curtin with about twenty men, expecting to raise a 
company; but he concluded to join forces with Captain 
Ball, and when the requisite number of men were raised, 
he was made the second lieutenant of the company. 

The company was composed mostly of Harrisburg boys, 
with the exception of Michael Mulverhill, who was a 
Canadian, and the squad of twenty men brought by Lieu- 
tenant Denny from Crawford county. They were a fine 
body of men, and under the skillful instruction of Cap- 
tain Ball, became one of the best drilled companies in the 
regiment. 

Sergeant Henry Davis and Robert Simmers of this 
company served in the Mexican war, while sergeant Sam- 
uel Eberly, and Corporals John Culp, George Sininger 
and Henry A. Swartz, together with J. William Bush, 
musician, were in the three months' service. 

During the battle of Fredericksburg, Sergeant Henry 
Davis and Private Robert Simmers, both deceased, did a 
conspicuous act of bravery. As the regiment gained the 

76 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. yj 

top of the hill, just over the crest, a young boy, badly 
wounded, was appealing for aid and famishing for water. 
These two comrades gallantly crept over the crest, and 
dragged the wounded boy back for protection behind the 
crest ; and while they were performing this humanitarian 
act, a bullet struck him and killed him instantly. 

Private John Herman, now deceased, during the battle 
of Fredericksburg, crossed over the hill as a vidette, and 
bravely stood under that terrific fire in advance of his 
company, and was inhumanly run over by the brigade 
which fell back, crushing everything in their way. 

Captain Ball was shot in the head, and with the blood 
streaming from his wound, he refused to leave the field ; 
but was ordered to the rear by the colonel; and as soon 
as his wound was dressed, he came back to his company, 
just in time to see it hurled back by the retreating brigade. 

There were many other acts of heroism and bravery 
committed by individual members of this company reflect- 
ing great credit upon their patriotism and their gallantry. 

Henry A. Swartz. 



78 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "Q." 

Name. Rani:. Mustered iu. Remarks. 

Ball, John J Captain Aug. 10, 'C2 Wonnded Battle of Frederlcks- 

liurg, Dee. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

Hynlcka, George ..1st Lieut Aug. 10, 'C2 Served full term and honorably 

discharged. 

Deunv, Hudson 2d Lieut Aug. 10, '02 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec, 13, 1862. Served 
full term and honorably dis- 
charged. 

Eberly, Samuel 1st Sergt Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

Kimball, Clifton W Sergt Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

White, Thomas J Sergt Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Davis, Henry Sergt Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Deo. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hinkle, Jacob J Sergt Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Walter John B Corp Aug. 13, '62 Wouuded Battle of Fredericks- 

' burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 

full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

CulD John Corp Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Sininger, George Corp Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Swartz, Henry A Corp Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Cain, William H Corp Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kerr Andrew M Corp Aug. 9, '62 Promoted to Corporal, Jan. 12, 

1863. 

Humphries. John J Corp Aug. 9, '62 Promoted ^^o ^. ^-P-L ^O^^^^^ 

orably discharged. 

Campbell, James n....Corp Aug. 9, '62 I^'-omoted to Corporal, April 30. 

^ 1863. Served full term. Hon- 

orably discharged. 

Bush, J. William Mus Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 

charged. Promoted to Drum 
Major. 

Drain, James A Mus Aug. 9, '62 Promoted to Fife-Major. Served 

full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Bechtel, William ... .Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Brightbill, David J. . .Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Boyer, George H Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Burris, Samuel Private Aug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, Jan. 31, 1863. 

Bernard, Aaron A. .. .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1802. Dis- 
charged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, Feb. 19, 1863. 



i27TH REGlMENt, I*. V. ^9 

Roster of Company "Q," (Continued). 

Name. Rank. Mustered in. Remarks. 

Carson, Franklin ... .Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Cole, Timothy Private Aug. 13, '62 .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Chambers, Jos. P Private Aug. 13, '62 .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Cole, Samuel S Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Cotteral, John Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Connelly, James Private. .. ..\ug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, March 14, 1863. 

Cushman, Henry ... .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Transferred to 4th Regiment, 

Ohio Vol., March 28, 1863. 

DeHuff, Henry G Private Aug. 9, '62 .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Fink, Simon C Private Aug. 9, '62 O'ouuded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Gable, Chas. H. A. .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Grant, Edward C Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Goldsmith, Henry ....Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Gibbs, Edward Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Graves, John Private Aug. 9, '62 W^ounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Gardner, Charles R.. Private Aug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, Feb. 24, 1863. 

Gilmore, Robert ... .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, April 3, 1863. 

Hill, George N Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Hoffman, David R. .. .Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Herman, John Private. .. .Aug. 13, '62 .Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Irvine, James Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Jones, Enoch B Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Jones, James Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kerr, James Private Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kerr, William Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kingport, Abr'm E Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kelsey, Melvin P Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Kenney, Wm. A Private .... Aug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, Dec. 20, 1862. 

Lovell, Melvin N Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



8o MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "G," (Continued). 

Name. Rank. Mustered In. Remarks. 

Morris, William Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Mannas, Michael Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Michael, William Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Morton, John B Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Mulverhill, Michael ..Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Morse, John W Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Moughan, Michael Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

M'Dermott, John Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

M'Kee, Andrew J Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

M'Glnnett, John W. .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '02 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

M'Ginnett. Charles . .Private. .. .Aug. 9. '02 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Pearson, Wm. Lyle. .Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Pritz, Benjamin B. .. .Private- •• -Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Page, Daniel A Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Pu^h, William Private Aug. 9, "62 Transferred, Aug. 15, 1862, or- 

" ' .... ganization unknown. 

Redifer, Samuel ... .Private- •• -Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Rotherick, Henry ... .Private- •- -Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Snyder, Marcus Private- •• -Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Seldle Simuel Private Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 

heldle, hamuel l-iivate b ^^^^^ ^^^ ^^^ ^^^^ Served 

full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Styer, James Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Spahr, Levi Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Stemberger, Daniel ..Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Sanders, John W Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Sergent, Charles W.. Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Snyder, William Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Snavely Martin W.. Private Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dls- 

' ' " charged. 

Southwick, Jas. W..Private----Aug. 9, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, Dec. 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Shartzer, John Private Aug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, Feb. 23, 1863. 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 8l 

Roster of Company "Q," (Continued). 



Name. Bank. Mustered In. Remarks. 

Simmers. Robert Private Aug. 9, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, April 25. 1863 

Seber, Bernard Private Aug. 9, '62 Died at Washington, D. C, Sept. 

28, 1862. 

Sehrt, James C Private Aug. 9, '62 Deserted, December 1, 1862. 

Weltzel, Columbus .. Private .... Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Wingert, Salmon M. .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Worley, Philip B. .. .Private. .. .Aug. 9, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Wallower, Daniel ... .Private. .. .Aug. 9. '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

waiter. Thomas Private .... Aug. 9. '62 Wounded lf^^\^^\J^l^^^^:^^!^ 

full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



COMPANY "H." 



TlHE Susquehanna Rangers, which became Com- 
^ pany "H," was recruited at Middletown and vi- 
^^M cinity, by Captain Jeremiah Rohrer. Dr. Jacob 
K. Knisley, a dentist (formerly from Cumber- 
land county), had been working for several weeks to re- 
cruit a company for the nine months' service, but secured 
only a few recruits. The following memoranda from my 
diary give some interesting details of the formation of 
the company: 

"In 1861, when President Lincoln called for three- 
months men to crush the rebellion, the people, became anx- 
ious, and their patriotic feelings were aroused. The peo- 
ple of the State responded at once, and the quota was 
promptly filled. In many towns, companies were formed 
called "home guards." It was my pleasure to drill regu- 
larly twice a week, a company of these "home guards." 
Amongst them were several, who, years ago, belonged to 
the same volunteer company with myself. My first squad. 
Lieutenant Charles Allen, joined Company "G," Sixth 
Pennsylvania Reserve; and later on, another squad joined 
the 93rd Pennsylvania Volunteers, Captain Boynton. 
When the President and Governor A. G. Curtin called for 
men to serve for nine months, I was from home at the 
time. (Being hot weather, drill was suspended for the time 
being. ) On my arrival at home, I learned that Dr. Knisely 
was recruiting a company for the nine months' service. A 
meeting was called in Union Hall for Tuesday evening, 
August 5, 1862, only a short distance from my house. I 
did not go near, but went up town. On my return, in 
passing the hall, I found that the meeting had adjourned. 

82 




JOHN K. SHOTT. 

CaiilMiii (■.,. ■■II, •■ 127111 Kc-iiiii'iil, P. V. 

MaimfaeluriT, 

Middlotowii, I'u. 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 83 

I was hailed and urged to take the lead, so that the com- 
pany could be raised. Quite a number of prominent men 
were at this meeting, and several young men from the 
country, among them Solomon Strickler, and others, who 
promised to recruit thirty men if I would take the cap- 
taincy. Other prominent men took part, urging me to 
head the company, saying it was a shame that Middletown 
should not raise a full company ; that if I took hold there 
would be no trouble, for no other man in town, they said, 
could raise it. This was flattering to me. I replied, "I 
will go to Harrisburg tomorrow and inquire how matters 
stand." I told my wife what occurred, and said I would 
go to Harrisburg next day and learn the situation, but 
she strenuously objected. If I were a single man I would 
have gone from the first; but having a wife and four chil- 
dren I thought it my duty to attend to them. However, 
next day, Wednesday, I went to Harrisburg and made in- 
quiry. Came home; boys met me at the train. I told 
them to go to work ; must report on Saturday, the 9th of 
August, it being the last day to get into the nine months' 
service. Confidence shown by my fellow townsmen was 
very gratifying to me. Middletown having already sent 
two squads of my home guards to the front, the year be- 
fore, it was draining the men very close. 

"Thursday morning, August 7th, Solomon Strickler 
called at my house with his span of horses, and we drove 
over the country to the Lancaster county line, but se- 
cured no recruits, they had joined Colonel Franklin's 
regiment at Lancaster. Drove around to Hummelstown; 
saw Captain Henderson, who had just come from Harris- 
burg. He said, 'T have more men than I can take, but I 
promised them to Captain AUeman, of Harrisburg." So we 
came home without any recruits. Ephraim Cobaugh and 



84 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Samuel Searfoss promised to raise sixty men about Hum- 
melstown. Cobaugh wanted to be first lieutenant, and 
Searfoss second lieutenant. Meeting in the evening at 
Union Hall. I stated my experience during the day, and 
it looked very blue for a company. With much enthusi- 
asm the meeting resolved that we could and should raise 
a company here. I told them I preferred to have the full 
company from Middletown and vicinity. After patriotic 
speeches from some of the citizens, it was agreed to meet 
on Friday night in Union Hall. Much enthusiasm. 

"Friday evening, August 8th, went to Harrisburg. En- 
gaged transportation for no men. In the evening met at 
Union Hall, at 8 p m. Informed the men we must meet 
there at 8 o'clock next morning (Saturday) to elect offi- 
cers. 

"The wife of J. K. Shott was very patriotic. She did not 
cry, but said it was the duty of every able bodied man to 
go and fight for the Government. This stimulated her 
husband to accept the first lieutenancy when it was offered 
to him. His only child, Frank, also enrolled. This move 
had a good effect in my family. 

"Saturday morning, August 9th. Meeting called to or- 
der at 8 o'clock. First thing in order, election of officers. 
Jeremiah Rohrer elected captain, unanimously. John K. 
Shott was elected first lieutenant, and Isaiah Willis second 
lieutenant. Adjourned to meet at ii a. m., as the train 
leaves at twenty minutes of twelve. My wife more rec- 
onciled since Mr. Shott, our next door neighbor and for- 
mer partner of mine in the door and sash factory, had 
joined us. 

"Met at Union Hall at 11 a. m., boys rather slow. Got 
together, marched past my house ; windows all open ; saw 
no one. I called "Halt !"' Ran into the house, and upstairs. 



12/TJl REGIMENT, P. V. 85 

There my wife sat crying with the babe in her arms. I 
thought I would sink through the floor. If I had acted as 
I felt, I would have remained at home, but honor and 
duty prevailed. Started for the station. Marched the 
boys about and kept them going, halting occasionally for 
one of the preachers to give them a talk. Then the moth- 
ers of the boys would come to me and say, "Now, take 
good care of my boy," the tears running down their 
cheeks. This was more than I could stand. Ordered 
"attention" ! and marched them away, for I tried to keep 
a bold front. Train arrived, and we left for Harrisburg 
amidst hundreds of our people cheering, and the women, 
generally crying. 

"Arrived at Harrisburg; marched to Camp Curtin. Met 
by Andy Unger on horseback, who led us to our camp- 
ing ground. Ordered a detail of thirty men to draw tents, 
and fifteen men to draw rations. Tents put up, rations 
drawn, then a little drill in facings, — "Right," "Left," 
etc. Drilled them well, and the boys were ready for sup- 
per. Slept without blankets. Not a man had a blanket; 
so we all lay on the grass in the tents. 

"Sunday morning, August nth. Bright and clear. 
Ugly weather would have worked disastrously. The men 
had not been sworn in, and if the weather had been rough, 
they not being accustomed to it, might have walked home 
and the company been broken up, for it was composed of 
just such material. Many of the men were saw-millers 
and got good wages. After we left Middletown, the saw- 
mills were shut down. They had been running day and 
night on government work. They had hard work to get 
men enough to run in day time. Many persons from T'iid- 
dletown visited camp on Sunday. Drew one day's cooked 
rations, and all were supplied with blankets. The com- 



86 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

missary was rushed to its utmost capacity, and sometimes 
ran short of cooked meat, so that it required time and pa- 
tience to draw the rations for the men. The cause was 
the great rush of troops coming into the camp. At sup- 
per, several men said, "Captain, those fellows are eating 
all the m.eat, and won't give us any." I then told the boys 
that they must serve out the rations fairly, and give each 
one what belongs to him, for there was enough for all. 

"Monday, August nth. Made arrangements to have 
the men examined after dinner by Dr. Miller. All passed 
but two, and they were old fellows with bad eyes. 

"Tuesday, August 12th. Called the men together and 
ordered them to remain about the tents. Marched them 
to quarters of Captain Lane, and had eighty-one sworn 
into the United States service. I felt much relieved. Sev- 
eral who were examined did not report, and several were 
present who had not been examined. Drew kettles, pans, 
knives and forks, plates and spoons. 

"Wednesday, Auguest 13th. I was notified to bring my 
squad to Harrisburg to Captain Lane's office, tO' have 
them sworn into the United States service as a company. 
Twelve additional men sworn in, which gave me ninety- 
three men, rank and file. I was entitled to ninety-eight 
men, without the commissioned officers, but I took the ad- 
vice of an officer not to bother about the other five, al- 
though more than that number wanted tO' join afterwards. 
I said, "Too much red tape and trouble." If any man felt 
relieved, I did when the company was mustered in. 

"Thursday, August 14th. Nothing but drilling in the 
forenoon, and camp duties. At the request of Mr. 
Kelker, I marched my company to Harrisburg (about 4 
o'clock) to receive a present of fifty dollars for each priv- 
ate from Dauphin county, voted by the commissioners. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 87 

This was unexpected to me, and I believe to all the rest of 
the company. It certainly was a great help to those who 
left families or parents at home dependent on them. 
Halted on the river bank, in front of Mr. Kelker's house, 
where each member received the gift with thanks. I had 
the chance to go iiome with J. L Gingrich in a buggy; so 
I said to Lieutenant Shott, "You take charge of the com- 
pany, I am going home to settle up my affairs." This is 
my first visit home since the company came to Camp Cur- 
tin. Near midnight I heard considerable noise about the 
street. About one-half of the company were home and 
having a glorious time. Scarcely twenty men slept in 
camp. 

"Friday, August 15th. Fixed and settled my accounts. 
Returned to Harrisburg at noon, and found my men in 
camp all right. All the captains of twenty companies were 
called together by Captain Tarbutton at 5 p. m., and no- 
tified that they must draw clothing and be ready to march 
at once. 

"Saturday, August i6th. Drew uniforms for the men, 
then marched to Wallower's warehouse at P. R. R., in 
Harrisburg, and drew our Springfield rifle muskets. Re- 
turned to Camp Curtin. Boys proud of their new guns 
and blue clothing. It took considerable swapping until 
the little fellows got short pants, and the big fellows long 
ones, so as to fit all around. It was amusing to see a lit- 
tle fellow with his pants rolled half way up to his knees, 
and a big fellow with pants six inches too short; same 
with coats. A bundle of clothes, shoes and all was 
handed out to each man, and the only way to get some- 
thing of a fit was to trade with each other. 

"More trouble. A committee of Company "H" waited on 
me and stated their grievances. Said it was reported that I 



88 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

was to be major of the regiment ; that they enlisted in my 
company, and expected that I would be their captain ; and 
now I was going to leave them. Had they known this, 
they would not have joined the company. I then told 
them that if I was major, I could do more for them than if 
I was only captain; that they would have a good captain 
in J. K. Shott, and that both of us would have more in- 
fluence than only one; that we would look to their wel- 
fare jointly and severally, upon which they could depend. 
I promised that I never would forsake those whose moth- 
ers charged me, when we left home, with tears rolling 
down their cheeks, to take good care of their boys. "All 
of you I have known, some of you are my neighbors, and 
all of you are my friends ; others I have known for years ; 
therefore rest assured, I will act as a father should act for 
his children." This had a good effect, and I never heard 
any complaint afterwards. That night, August i6th, 
midnight, nine captains met in Harrisburg and elected 
field officers. The regiment was organized, and at 9 a. 
m. Sunday, August 17th, Company "H" of the regiment 
was on cars for Baltimore. 

J. ROHRER. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "H." 



89 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. 

Rohrer, Jeremiah Captain Aug. 14, '62 . , 

Shott, John K Captain Aug. 14, '62.. 



Willis, Isaiah 1st Lieut Aug. 14, '62. 



Schreiner, Jas. R 2d Lieut Aug. 14, '62. 



Knisley, Jacob R 2d Lieut Aug. 12, '62. 



Hyde, David 1st Sergt Aug. 12, '62. 

Cover, Solomon Sei-gt. Aug. 13, '62. 

Rinehart, Francis J Sergt. Aug. 12, '62. 



Shaffer, Wm. E Sergt Aug. 12, '62. 



Roe, Caleb H Sergt Aug. 12, '62. 



Sanders, Leander Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

Kleis, John P Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

WilUs, Henry Corp Aug. 12, '62. 



Klineliue, John W Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

Briuser, Abraham F Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

Fisher, David Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

Lowman, Robert C Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

David, James G Corp Aug. 12, '62. 

g 



Remarks. 

.Promoted to Major, August 19, 
1862. 

.Promoted from First Lieutenant, 
August 19, 1862. Died March 
23, 1884. Buried Middletown 
Cemetery. 

.Promoted from Second Lieuten- 
ant, August 19, 1862. Died 
November 14, 1899. Burled 
Middletown Cemetery. 

.Promoted from Private, August 
19, 1862. Resigned March 7, 
1863. Died June 7, 1877. 
Buried Middletown Cemetery. 

.Promoted frjom First Sergeant, 
March 7, 1863. Wounded 
Battle Chancellorsville, May 
3, 1863. Died from wounds, 
May 15, 1863. 

.Promoted from Sergeant, March 
7, 1863. Died December 29, 
1889. 

.Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 
December 11, 1862. Deceased. 

.Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 
December 11, 1862. Returned 
to duty in March. 1863. Serv- 
ed full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

. Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 
December 11, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

.Promoted from Private, January 
1. 1863. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. Died 
June 1, 1899. 

.Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

• Served full term. Honorably dis- 

charged. Deceased. Buried 
at Lancaster, Pa. 
. Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 
December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died January 7, 
1896. 

• Promoted to Corporal, November 

1. 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

• Promoted to Corporal, November 

1, 1862. Served full term. 

Honorably discharged. 
.Promoted to Corporal, November 

1, 1862. Served full term. 

Honorably discharged. Died 

October 14, 1888. 
.Promoted to Corporal, November 

1, 1862. Served full term. 

Honorably discharged. 

• Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 

cate, February 6, 1863. Died 
Juno 15. 1883. 



90 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 
Roster of Company "H," (Continued). 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. Remarks. 

Shott, Frank A Corp Aug. 12, '62 Died November 10, 1862. Buried 

in Middletown Cemetery. 

Hippie, Henry Mus Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Ruth. Valentine Mui Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Ackerman, Ansil Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died July 1, 1884. 

Airgood, Paul Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Atherton, Alonzo Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died December 10, 
1883. 

Arnold. Jonas S Private Aug. 12, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg. 

Died from wounds, December 
22, 1862. Buried Middletown 
Cemetery. 

Beck, William V Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died May 25, 1864. 

12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 
to Company, 
charged. 

.Private .\ug. 12, '62 Captured Battle 

December 11, 
ed to Company 
uary 5, 1879. 
. .Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. 

Brown, Andrew Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full tei'm. 

Bear, John Private .\ug. 13, '62 Served full terra. 

Burns, John Private \ug. 12, '62. .... .Served full term. 

Banzhoff, Heury Private Vug. 12, '62. .... .Served full term. 

Brandt, Benjamin. . . .Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. 

Beaehler. Jacob Private -Vug. 12, '62 Served full term. 

Brown. Henry J Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term 

Brinzer, John Private Aug. 12, '62 Discharged 



Bancus, Henry Private Aug 



Bretz, Elias Jacob. 



Bretz, Benjamin V 



1862. Return- 
Honorably dls- 

Frederieksburg, 
1862. Return- 
Died Jan- 

Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, January 22, 1863. 
Bretz, Daniel Private. • • • • Aug. 13, '62 Died December 31, 1862 (sudden- 
ly). 

.Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

.Aug. 12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company. Honorably 
discharged. 

.Private. ••■ -Aug. 12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company. Honorably 
discharged. 

Crick, Frank Private. ••• --^ug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Campbell, David Private. -^u&- 12, '62 Promoted to Quartermaster-Ser- 
geant, December 1, 1862. Died 
April 2, 1900. 
Davis, Theophilus Private. -^ug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died January 29, 
1877. 

.Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

.Aug. 12, '62 Died November 10, 1862, at Wash- 
ington, D. C. 

Epler, Richard Private. Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Frantz, William Private. Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Fitzpatrick, Thomas. .Private. Aug. 13, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company. Died at Mid- 
dleown. Pa. 
Jloovcr, Isaac W Private. Aus- 13, "62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Campbell, Alexander. .Private. 
Cramer, John Private. 



Coble, Solomon. 



Davis, Jacob Private. • • 

Detwiler, Jacob Private. • • 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "H," (Continued). 



91 



Name. 
Hlckeruell, Robert. . 



Rank. Mustered in. Remarks. 

.Private Aug. 12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 



Hickernell, David L.. Private. 



December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company. Honorably 
discharged. 
.Aug. 13, '62 Served full terra. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died May 2, 186T. 

12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried Middletown 
Cemetery. 

Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died June 16, 1885. 

12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company at Harrisburg. 
Honoi'ably discharged. 
Jones, James Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died August 0. 1864. 
62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Houser, Jacob R 
Herold, Leonard 



Irely, Samuel. . 
Irely, John. . . . 
James, David. 



.Private Aug 

.Private Aug 



.Private Aus 



Jenkins, Henry S Private Aug 



Ivoehler, Charles. 
Keyser, Jacob. . . 
Lutz, William... 



.Private Aug. 12, 

.Private Aug. 12, 



.Private. 



Laughuian, Daniel. .. .Private Aug. 12, '62 



Miller, James . . . 
Murphy, Robert. 



JIanybe(!k, Amos. . . 



Miller, John 

McBurron, William. 



McNeal, George.... 
McBarrou, John. . . . 



, .Privjite. • ■ ■ 
. .Private. . . . 



'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

.Aug. 12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company. Died Feb- 
ruary 2, 1864. 
Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, December 30, 1862. 
Died February 26, 1876. 
Sept. 10, "62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Knoll, Jacob S . . . 

Osman, John B. . 

Phillips. William 
Buhl, Wllhelm.. . 
Rehrer, Nicholas. 



.Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis 

charged. Died at Middleown. 
.Private ... .Aug. 12, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, October 16, 1862. Died 
October 25, 1862. 

.Private Aug. 12, '62 Deserted AuguHt 16, 1862. 

.Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died September 17, 
189.5. 

Private Au" 12 '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 

.Liivaii..-. ». charged. Died April 1, 1881. 

Private ....Aug. 12, '62 Killed Battle Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13, 1862. Buried in 
National Cemetery, Freder- 
icksburg, Va. 
(50 Served full term. Honorably dis- 

charged. Died May 8, 1899. 
62 Died April 6, 1863. Buried Mid- 
dletown Cemetery. 

.Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

.Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

. Private Aug. 12, '62 



.Private Aug. 12, 

.Private Aug. 12, 



Wounded Battle Fredericksburg 
December 13, 1862. Honora- 
bly discharged. Died July 
20, 1893. 

62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

62 Ivilled Battle Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13, 1862. Buried in 
National Cemetery, Freder- 
icksburg, Va. 
Schreiner, Henry J. ..Private Aug. 12, "62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Rittersbach, Jacob.. 
Ramsey, Charles J. . 
Reed, John 



..Private Aug. 12, 

.Private Aug. 12, 

..Private Aug. 12, 



92 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 



Roster of Company "H," (Continued). 



Name. 



Rank. 



Mustered in. 



Remarks. 



Stipe, Andrew Private Aug. 

Stipe, Andrew J Private Aug. 



Sheetz, John H Private Aug. 

Shaffer, Isaac H Private Aug. 



12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

12, '62 Captured Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 11, 1862. Return- 
ed to Company. Died Novem- 
ber 25, ISSS. 

Stipe, Jackson Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died December 18, 
1881. 

12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died May 12, 1890. 

Snyder, Joseph H Private Aug. 12, 'C2 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died March 5, 1882. 

Snyder. Samuel Private. Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Siple, William H Private. Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Suavely, John W Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Swords, William Private. Aug. 12, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Honora- 
bl.v discharged. 

Singer, Philip Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died August 22, 1876. 

Sebolt, John Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Stipe, William Private Aug. 12, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Discharg- 
ed on Surgeon's certificate, 
April 1, 1863. Died June 24, 
1863. 

Ulrich, Martin Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Ulrich, Solomon Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Wentllng, John Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Whisler, John L Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Winters, Daniel Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Harrisburg. 

Young, Hiram Private Aug. 12, '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died at Middletown. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 93 

Company "H" sustained its full share of the casualties 
of war,, and it and Company ''K" were the only com- 
panies in the regiment which had any of their men cap- 
tured by the enemy. The company was made up of very 
determined men, who made a good record, and Lieutenant 
Knisley who was mortally wounded in leading the skir- 
mish line at the battle of Chancellorsville, was as brave an 
officer as ever drew a sabre. He had the respect of every 
man in his command, and the full confidence of the regi- 
mental officers. 

The company was mustered out of service, at Camp 
Curtin, May 29, 1863. 



COMPANY "I. 



A 



LTHOUGH Captain Ira R. Shipley recruited 
many of his men in Adams county, and the com- 
pany was usually designated as an Adams 
county company, it was made up by recruits 
from other localities. There was a consolidation of 
squads recruited by Professor James S. Shoemaker in the 
Lehigh district, with others recruited by Lieutenant Je- 
rome W. Henry. 

The company was unfortunate in its early organization, 
and, notwithstanding the fact that it was composed of 
good material, it necessarily took its general character, as 
well as reputation, from its company commanders. 

Captain Shipley resigned on surgeon's certificate of dis- 
ability in a very few weeks after his muster into the ser- 
vice, and it was deemed best for the company that some- 
one outside of its organization should command it. Lieu- 



94 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

tenant Christian A. Nissley of Company "C" was selected 
by the colonel as a suitable officer who could give strength 
and character, and inspire spirit into the company. This 
promotion was readily endorsed by the other field officers, 
and he was in due time coinmissioned and mustered in as 
captain of the company. The sequel showed the good 
judgment of the colonel, as he made a most excellent 
company conmiander. 

While Lieutenant Shoemaker yielded like a good sol- 
dier to the judgment of his superior officers, he evidently 
felt some chagrin in having a promotion made over his 
head, and worked hard to retrieve himself, and unneces- 
sarily braved danger on the battle field of Fredericksburg 
to command promotion for his daring heroism. He 
proved his courage; but unfortunately at the cost of his 
life. 

Lieutenant Henry also proved himself a gallant officer 
at the battle of Fredericksburg, where he was wounded, 
and was promptly promoted for deserved merit. His 
promotion made a vacancy, and the colonel again con- 
cluded to go outside of the company to find a suitable 
person to fill his place. He selected William W. Reed of 
Company "F", the regimental clerk, who proved a good 
selection, as he made a capable and meritorious officer. 

Both Captain Nissley and Lieutenant Reed were ac- 
ceptable to the company, and became very popular with 
their command. These officers took a great pride, not 
only in their positions, but in their company, and Com- 
pany "I" under their leadership, made a good record. 

S. G. Stevens. 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "I.' 



95 



Rank. 



Mustered in. 



Remarks. 



Reed, Wm. W 2d Went. Aug. 



Welsh, Augustus A. .1st Sergt Auj 



Early, David Sergt. 



.Aus 



Name. 

Shipley, Ira R Captain Aug. 13, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, October 6, 1862. 

Nissley, Christian A. .Captain Aug. 9, '62 Promoted from First Lieutenant, 

Co. C, October 13, 1862. Serv- 
ed full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Buried in Hummels- 
town Cemetery. 

Shoemaker, Jas. S... 1st Lieut Aug. 13, '02 Killed Battle Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13, 1862. 

Henry, Jerome W. . .1st Lieut Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Promoted 
from Second Lieutenant, De- 
cember 14, 1862. Served full 
term. Honorably discharged. 

'62 Promoted from Sergeant, Co. F, 

December 14, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Deceased. 

Miller, Charles G... 1st Sergt Aug. 13, '62 Promoted from Sergeant, Septem- 
ber 5, 1862. Wounded Battle 
Fredericksburg, December 13, 
1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

13, '62 Promoted from Private, October 1, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

13, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Sheaffer, Samuel G Sergt Aug. 13, '62 Promoted from Corporal, Septem- 

» ber S, 1862. Wounded Battle 

Fredericksburg, December 13, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

Promoted from Corporal, March 1, 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'C2 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62. Wounded Battle Fredericksburg. 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Promoted to Corporal, November 

6, 1862. Served full term. 
Honorably discharged. 

'62 Absent, sick. at muster-out. 

Served full term. Honorably 
discharged. 

'62 Killed Battle Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13, 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 



Segner, John M Sergt Aug. 13, "62 



Wolf, George A Sergt Aug. 13, 

Newhard. Reuben K Corp Aug. 13, 

Baker, Michael Corp Aug. 13, 

Stevens, Shade G Corp Aug. 13. 



Sta mbaugh , Jacob Corp Aug. 

Early, Joseph Corp Aug. 



Myers, William S Corp Aug. 16, 



Forney, William A Corp Aug. 13, 

Wheeler, Simon Mus Aug. 13, 

Clark, Edward F. A Mus Aug. 13, 

Arnold, Eli Private Aug. 13, 

Alexander, Francis. . .Private Aug. 13, 

Auge, Valentine Private Aug. 13, 

Blasser, Andrew Private Aug. 13, 

Baker, Daniel L Private Aug. 13, 



Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 



96 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Roster of Company "I," (Continued). 



Remarks. 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. 

Black, Jacob Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Becker, Martin Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Bachman, Peter Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Black, Daniel Private Aug. 13, '62 Wounded Battle of Fredericksburg. 

Discharged for vFounds, Feb- 
ruary 27, 1863. 

Hupp, Joseph T Private Aug. 13, '62 Deserted January 27, 1863. 

Cilley, John Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Day, George Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Davis, James M Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Druckenmiller, A Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Early, Benj. W Private Aug. 14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Fickle, Thaddeus Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Frantz, Adam Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Fldell, Francis Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

^ -~ ■-- - Hon. discharged. 



Gelvin, John Private Aug. 

Gardner, Theo. F Private Aug. 

Hansen, Christian Private Aug. 

Heikes, John B Private Au 

Jones, Michael Private Aug. 



13, '62 Served full term 

13, '62 Deserted December 16, 1862. 

13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged 

16, '62 Served full term. 

13, '62 Served full term. 



Kindt, Anthony Private Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. 

Livingston, Jas. W. ...Private Aug. 13, ' ~ 

Livingston, William. . .Private Aug. 13, 

Loser, Jacob Private Aug. 13, 

Lentz, Alfred Private Aug. 13, 



'62 Served full term 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Wounded Battle 

December 13, 



Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Fredericksburg, 
1862. Served 
Honorably dis- 



full term, 
charged. 

13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

13, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, October 4, 1862. 

Private Aug. 'l3, '62 Died February 16, 1863. 

13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

13* '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

•62 Served full terra. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62. .....Wounded Battle of Fredericksburg 

and supposed to have died on 
the field. 
Myers, Jacob H Private Aug. 13, '62 Died at Washington, D. C, De- 
cember, 1862. 
Nipple, Jeremiah Private Aug. 13, '62 .Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Lessley, John Private Aug. 

Lilllenstine, Charles. ..Private Aug. 

Lentz, Eli 

Menear, Edward J.... Private Aug. 

Myers, Daniel S Private Aug. 

Mumper, Levi Private Aug. 

Miller, John H Private Aug. 

Mark, John G Private Aug. 

Miller, Daniel Private Aug. 

Myer, Henry Private Aug. 

Moneghan, John Private Aug. 13, 

Mondorff, David Private Aug. 13, 



13, 
13, 
13, 
13, 
13, 



Neiff , Joseph Private Aug. 1 

Norman, Edward Private Aug. 13, 

Osborne, John H Private Aug. 13, 

Packham, Bradd Private Aug. 13, 

Rupp, Henry Private Aug. 13, 

Robb, John A Private Aug. 13, 

Rankin, William Private Aug. 13, 



'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Absent, sick, at muster-out. 

'62 Deserted August 16, 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Rhodes, Henry Private Aug. 13, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, December 31. 1863. 



Stough, Joseph Private Aug. 13, 

Sheaffer, John W Private .\ug. 13, 

Sheaffer, Philip S Private Aug. 13, 

Stevens, Edward Private Aug. 13, 

Sheaffer, Jacob S Private Aug. 13, 

Shutt, John H Private Aug. 13, 



'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 



Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "I," (Continued). 



97 



Name. 



Rank. 



Mustered in. 



Shultz, John A Private Aug. 13, 



SheaEfer, Jacob Private Aug. 



Trimmer, Andrew Private Aug 

Vernosdale, Uriah Private Aug. 13, 

Welsh, George W Private Aug. 13, 



Wendling, Adam Private Aug. 

Weltmer, Martin Private Aug. 

Walborn, Elijah Private Aug. 

Weirman, Joseph E. . .Private Aug. 

Wilhelm, Lewis Private Aug. 



Young, James Private. 

Yann, John Private. 



.Aug. 



Remarks. 

62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

13, '62 Discharged April 6, 1863, for 

wounds received at Freder- 
icksburg, December 13, 1862. 

13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle of Fredericks- 
burg, December 13, 1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 .Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, February 26, 1863. 
13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



13, 
13, 
13, 
13, 
13, 



.Aug. 13, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Mustered out D. S. service by Captain William B. Lane, 3d Cavalry, U. S. A., at 
Camp Curtln, Harrisburg, Pa., May 29, 1863. 



COMPANY "K. 



THIS company was recruited principally in Schuyl- 
kill county, Pennsylvania, by Captain William 
^^^. Fox who, living in the South at the time of the 
secession of States, was conscripted and forced 
into the Confederate army. He took the earliest oppor- 
tunity to prove his devotion to his country by escaping 
through the picket lines, making his way into Pennsylva- 
nia. He went up into the coal regions and set himself to 
work to raise men for the service. He brought a number 
of men into Camp Curtin, and returned to Schuylkill 
county to recruit his company to its full maximum 
strength. The men were not all raised in Schuylkill 
county, a number were recruited in Lebanon county, but 
the company was generally known in the regiment as the 
Schuylkill County Company. 

Both officers and men of this company were composed 
of good material, and rendered a good account of them- 
selves during tiieir term of service. 

Henry T. Euston. 



98 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "K." 



99 



Name. Rauk. Mui 

Fox, WUliam Captain Aug. 

Doughert.v, Jos. W. . .Captain Aug. 



Long, David S 1st Lieut Aug. 



Barr, William J 2(1 Lieut Aug. 



Downey, Daniel 1st Sergt. .... Aug. 

Bertolet, Richard Sergt. Aug. 

Light, Adam J Sergt. .... Aug. 

Euston, Henry T Sergt. ■•. .Aug. 



Beehtel, Theodore H... Sergt. Aug 

Bieher, William Corp. • ■ • • Aug 



Ramsey, William H. .. .Corp. ■-. .Aug 
Klock, William A Corp. •.-. Aug 



Schram, Henry L Corp. . . . .Sept. 

Bugle, Benjamin Corp.. . . .Aug. 

Kanton, Charles F Corp Aug. 

Martry, Samuel Corp Aug. 

Freck, John L Corp Sept. 

Hummel, Jacol) Corp Aug. 

Warbeooke, James Corp Aug. 

Luckenblll, Robert J Corp Aug. 

Winters, Thomas Mus Aug. 

Reldel, Zachariah Mus Aug. 

Auman, Henry Private Sept. 

Banks, Paul Private Aug. 



Lot'C. 



tered in. Remarks. 

14, '02 lilUed Battle Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 11, 1862. 

14, 'G2 Promoted from First Lieutenant, 

Deoemlier 12, 1862. Wounded 
Battle of Fredericksburg, Ue- 
cember i;i, 1SG2. Served full 
term. Honorably discharged. 

14, "62 Promoted from Second Lieutenant, 

December 12, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

14, '02 Promoted from Private to Ser- 
geant, October 1, 1862; to Sec- 
ond Lieutenant, January 19, 
186;?. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

14, '62 Promoted from Corporal, March 1, 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

14. '62 Served full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. Died Philadelphia. 

14, '62 Promoted to Corporal. October 1, 

1862. Served full term. Hon- 
orabl.v discharged. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

14, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

2, '62 Promoted to Corporal, March 1. 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

14, "62 Promoted to Corporal, March 1, 

1S63. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

14, '62 Promoted to Corporal, March 1, 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

14, '62 Promoted to Corporal, March 1, 

1863. Served full term. Hon- 
orabl.v discharged. 

14, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

14, '62 Promoted to Corporal, October 1, 

1862. Discharged on Surgeon's 
certificate, February 14, 1863. 

15, '62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 

cate, February 24, 1863. 

14, '62 Died at Washington, D. C, De- 
cember 16, 1862. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

15, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 15, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



100 



MEMORIAL HISTORY 



Roster of Company "K," (Continued). 



Name. Rank. Mustered in. Keinarks. 

Berkheiser, Henry Private Aug. 14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Brumensteifer, J Private Aug. 14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Bomberger, Samuel. . .Private Sept. 14, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Bergal, Franklin Private Aug. 18, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 15, 1862. Dis- 
charged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, February 24, 1863. 

Brown, George Private Sept. 14. '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Dis- 
charged March 13, 1863. 

Dougherty, Samuel Private Aug. 14, '62 Wounded Battle Fredwicksburp. 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 



Eckert, 
Fessler, 



Benedict Private Aug. 14, 

Ellis Private Aug. 14, 



full term. 

charged. 

'62 Served full term. 

'62 Served full term. 



Feger, Henry Private Aug. 15, 

Gelger, Charles Private Aug. 14, 

Gerbill, Benjamin Private Aug. 16, '62 Served full term. 

Heverllng, Cyrus Private Aug. 14, '62 Served full term. 

Harpett, Charles Private Sept. 14, '62 Served full term. 

Button, William L Private Aug. 14, '62 Wounded Battle 

December 13, 



Honorably dls- 

Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Hon. discharged. 
Fredericksburg, 
1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

Helsey, Daniel P Private Aug. 14, '62 Servetl full term. Hon. discharged. 

Hoffman, Jacob Private Aug. 14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Hay, Christian Private Aug. 14, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 
Heckman, Edward A. .Private Aug. 14, '62 Captured at Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 15, 1862. Returned 
and honorably discharged. 

Hobbs, John A Private Sept. 14, '62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

Hautz, Ellas Private Aug. 15, '62 Discharged April 4, 1863, on ac- 
count of wounds received at 
Battle Fredericksburg, Decem- 
ber 13, 1862. 

Iba, Frederick R Private Sept. 2, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 



Johnson, Joseph Private Sept. 

Keller, Frederick Private Aug. 

Klarke, Franklin Private Aug. 

Lash, James L Private Sept. 

Lengel, George Private Aug. 

Lehman, Amos Private Aug. 



full term. 

charged. 

2, '62 Served full term. 

15, '62 Served full term. 

15, '62 Served full term. 

14, '62 Served full term. 

15, '62 Served full term. 

18, 



Honorably dis- 



Lessig, Reuben Private Aug. 14, 

Leidy, Daniel Private Aug. 14, 

Mayberry , Charles. . . . Private Aug. 14, 



Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 

Hon. discharged. 
'62 Discharged on Surgeon's certifi- 
cate, February 28, 1863. 

62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

62 Deserted January 15, 1863. 

62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Minning, Charles Private Aug. 15, '62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 
Roster of Company "K," (Continued). 



lOI 



Name. Rank. Muster 

Moyer, Reuben Private Aug. 14, 



Bloyer, Peter Private Aug. 15 

McCree, James Private Aug. 14 

McLaughlin, Cyrus Private Aug. 14 



Pierman, Isaac Private Aug. 14 

Raber, Lewis B Private Aug. 14 



Ramsey, Rufus Private Aug. 14, 

Ringle, Franklin E... Private Aug. 15, 

Rupp, John, Jr Private Aug. 14, 

Reinoehl. Jacob B.... Private Aug. 15, 

Raber, George W. .. ..Private Aug. 14, 

Smith, Arthur F Private Aug. 16, 

Suavely, William Private Aug. 14, 

Schreckengast, S Private Sept. 14 

Snyder, Jeremiah Private Aug. 14, 

Spri uger, Charles Private Aug. 14, 

Stoner, Andrew Private Aug. 14, 



Strauser, William. .. .Private Aug. 14, 

Strauch, John Private Aug. 14, 

Thomas, Joseph R. ...Private Aug. 15, 

Upchurch, Theo. F Private Aug. 14, 

Weber, Solomon Private Aug. 14, 

Weik, Henry Private Aug. 14, 

Welk, David Private Aug. 15, 

Whittle, John Private Aug. 14, 

Williams, Milton Private Aug. 14, 

War brook, William. . .Private Aug. 15, 

Warf , Frederick Private Aug. 14, 



Tecum. Franklin Private Aug. 14 

Yost, Lewis M Private Aug. 14 



ed in. Remarks. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Orderly of Colonel W. W. Jen- 
nings. Served full term. Hon- 
orably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Captured at Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 11, 1862. Returned 
and honorably discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Wounded Battle Fredericksburg, 

December 13, 1862. Served 
full term. Honorably dis- 
charged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Discharged January 20, 1863, for 

wounds received at Battle of 
Fredericksburg, December 13, 
1862. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 

'62 Served full term. Hon. discharged. 



Company "K" mustered out May 29th, 1863. 



CHAPTER III. 

Marches. 



A 



LTHOUGH not strictly a "march," but properly 
a ride, the regiment left Camp Curtin at Harris- 
burg, August 17th, 1862, on its way south to 
join the army, at 9.30 o'clock a. m., on flat cars 
on the Northern Central Railway. So many men were 
forwarded to the seat of war at that time, that passenger 
cars were a luxury, and even box cars appeared to be 
very scarce that beautiful Sunday morning; so the 127th 
Regiment were required to occupy flat open cars, with 
rough boards laid across them, from side to side, for 
seats; thus giving the sparks from the locomotive a 
chance to burn holes in the new uniforms of the men ; and 
some could show holes as large as if made by bullets. This 
was the first initiation of the regiment into the rough life 
of a soldier. The officers had the use of an antiquated 
passenger car, of ancient date, to ride in; some of them 
occupied it, while others rode with their men, or boys 
then, for they were nearly all boys at that time. York 
was reached about noon, and Baltimore about five 
o'clock. Here was the first march of the regiment, across 
the city of Baltimore, to a soldiers' refreshment depot, 
where they got something to eat. They left the Monu- 
mental City at 10 o'clock p. m., and reached Washington 
City, over the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, at 1.50 
o'clock a. m., Monday August i8th. The regiment 
marched a short distance to the Soldiers' Retreat, N. W., 

102 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. IO3 

of, and only a short distance from, the National Capitol. 
The men tried to get what sleep they could, on the street, 
at the Baltimore and Ohio depot. 

The morning broke clear and warm — in fact it was a 
very hot day — and the regiment rested, awaiting orders. 
About II o'clock orders came to march into Virginia; 
and it took up its line of march by fours, down Pennsyl- 
vania avenue to Fourteenth street, and then down Four- 
teenth street to the Long Bridge, crossing that bridge 
into Virginia. 

A little digression shows the requirements of adherence 
to military regulations, and how substitutions are made 
to meet the exigencies of the service. Lieutenant Orth had 
been appointed adjutant of the regiment; and Lieutenant 
Gilbert, quartermaster, but neither of them had received 
their commissions, so they could not be officially recog- 
nized, and the Colonel detailed Lieutenant A. J. Fager, of 
Company "B", as adjutant, and Lieutenant R. E. Cable, 
of Company "D," as quartermaster, both of whom were 
commissioned officers, and had been mustered into the 
service. These detailed officers reported to General Casey 
at his headquarters near the Long Bridge, and procured 
the necessary blanks and instructions, and having skil- 
fully performed their duty, rejoined the regiment. Lieu- 
tenant Fager continued to act as adjutant of the regiment 
for about ten days, taking off the first dress parade in 
Virginia on Tuesday evening, the 19th of August, at 
Camp Welles, Virginia ; and afterwards, in consequence of 
the disability of Adjutant Chayne, acted as adjutant at the 
last dress parade of the regiment in Virginia, besides fill- 
ing the position at various times during the service, and 
making a most acceptable substitute. 

The regiment marched across the Long Bridge into Vir- 



I04 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ginia, and out the Fairfax road some four miles, turning 
to the right, into a field, where it halted, pitched tents, and 
designated its new home "Camp Welles," remaining there 
until Saturday, August 23rd, when it took up its line of 
march, going northwest towards the Potomac River, 
along the military road, and halted on a hill, near Fort 
Ethan Allen, about one mile above Chain Bridge. The 
regiment was, up to this time, under command of General 
Whipple, with headquarters at the old General Lee resi- 
dence, at Arlington Heights. Company "B" was ordered 
to Chain Bridge for guard duty. 

The regiment from that time, until December ist did 
ver>' little marching as a regiment, except to change 
camps several times ; and in detachments, going on picket 
duty to Langley's on the Leesburg I'oad ; and out towards 
Ball's Bluff and Bull Run, and perrorming guard duty at 
Chain Bridge. 

The regiment left Camp Dauphin at nine o'clock A, M., 
December ist, in a rain storm; crossed Chain Bridge, 
marched to and through Washington City, past the White 
House, and down Pennsylvania avenue, resting on the 
Avenue near the Capitol, where Hon. Joseph Casey, the 
Chief Justice of the Court of Claims, came from his 
court in the Capitol building, and greeted the officers and 
men in a most friendly manner; many of them being his 
former neighbors, and most of them well known to him. 

The regiment was then marched to the Navy Yard, and 
crossed the bridge into Maryland. After marching about 
four miles further, the regiment camped for the night 
near the Asylum, and for the first time were under shelter 
tents. The next morning it resumed its march at eight 
o'clock, reaching the village of Piscataway, where we re- 
mained over night. We were delayed in our start the 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I05 

next morning; in waiting for our wagon train, which 
failed to reach us during the night; so we did not move 
until eleven o'clock, and after a march of thirteen miles, 
we camped on General Mitchell's farm, three miles from 
Port Tobacco, shortly after dark. Our brigade numbered 
about 5,000 men, so that the owner of the mansion, with 
such a large body of troops surrounding him, can hardly 
be blamed for showing a nervous anxiety for the safety 
of his property. To save his fences from destruction, he 
sent our regiment several cords of hickory wood to build 
fires for cooking and warmth, but the boys did not seem 
disposed to cut hickory while board fences were so 
handy. For policy sake an invitation was extended to 
some of the officers of the brigade to partake of the hospi- 
talities of the Mitchell mansion. The invitations were 
gladly accepted, but the officers after waiting patiently 
until nearly midnight, were treated to such indifferent 
and scanty fare, that they felt that it was a studied insult, 
and did not hesitate to forcibly express their opinions on 
their return to camp. Certain it is, that the men felt justi- 
fied in construing the treatment of their officers as an of- 
fence which required punishment, so they organized for 
foraging purposes, with evident disastrous results to the 
owner of perishable property. 

The following account of the night's work is taken 
from the diary of Major Rohrer. 

"'General Mitchell,' as he was called, had several sons 
in the Confederate army — so it is reported. He asked for 
a guard for his property, and the 27th Connecticut fur- 
nished the guard. Sergeant Cover, of Company "H" got 
up a plan to capture the poultry in the corn-crib, and the 
pigs in the pen. This was after he learned of the bad 
treatment of 'General' Mitchell to the invited officers at 



I06 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

his house. When this detail, commanded by Sergeant 
Cover, reached the guard, they were challenged, 'Who 
comes there?' The reply was, 'Guard of relief/ The 
pickets were relieved, and the reliefs took their places. 
How many more were in the plot I never knew; but I 
think the Jerseys were among the party. At any rate there 
seemed to be concert of action, and at an agreed time, 
long after taps, and while the invited officers were famish- 
ing for the proffered entertainment, and the boys learned 
of the inhospitable treatment of their officers, a raid, (and 
probably several of them) was made on the fowls, pigs 
and hogs of the Mitchell plantation. It was a moonlight 
night, foggy, very dangerous to be out; the safest place 
was lying down in quarters. The Minie balls of the 
Springfield muskets whistled through the air, and the re- 
port of the Belgian rifles of the Jerseys sounded like small 
cannon. The hogs running in the field squealed at every 
pop of the rifle. This was quite interesting — under the 
circumstances — the balls flying in all directions, similar 
to a skirmish line. 

"From the hickory wood sent by General Mitchell, 
(with the evident purpose of saving his fences), fires were 
seen all around like bon-fires, and around a good wood 
fire amongst the men, stood a fine looking young darkey, 
about twenty years old. I viewed him up and down and 
said to him, 'How would you like to march along with 
us in the morning?' He said, 'All right.' I said, 'You 
be here at this place.' He replied, 'Yes, sah,' laughingly. 

"December 4th. Last night was lively ; but this morn- 
ing all was quiet. The adjutant, quartermaster and my- 
self occupied a Sibley tent, (for the accommodation of 
sixteen persons). Our tent was full. A dull sound 
struck the ground in the tent, and a voice said, 'That's 



12/711 REGIMENT, P. V. I07 

for }ou, Major.' George, our cook, got up early and 
found a duck in the tent — (dead, of course). He at once 
took the duck down to the mess-chest and cleaned it. He 
laid it down to get a knife, and when he returned, 
the duck was gone. He looked about, saw no one, 
but swore in Dutch, yet no duck came back. The tents 
were very close, all around here, hardly a yard apart. 
Some one was w^atching every movement of the cook, and 
when his back was turned, the duck disappeared. Of 
course somebody was spited. At the fire stood the slave. 
I said, 'Are you ready ? Come on.' Gave him in charge 
of Lieutenant Schreiner, of Company "H." The regiment 
marched on. Later on I discovered that this George 
Washington was not the man I talked with last night. It 
was his brother. Whether the other fellow, who was older, 
backed out and got his brother to go, I never knew. 
'George Washington' was i8 years old, and remained 
with me during the service. I took him along home to 
Middletown, where he worked at the furnace. After I 
moved to Lancaster, the furnace blew up, and 'George 
Washington' with it, and was killed. George was a 
strong boy. He could 'tote,' as they called it, half a bar- 
rel of water on top of his head, and carry it for a quarter 
of a mile. His walk was slow; but he took long steps, 
nearly one yard in length — evidently never ran in his life ! 
When the regiment left for Fredericksburg, George had 
my gray mare, with a bag of oats, and went with the 
wagons. At the Lacy House the cannonading was so ter- 
rible that 'George Washington' could not stand the noise, 
so he left on 'vacation.' About two weeks later, he stuck 
his head in at my tent door and grinned. 'Hello! you 
black rascal, where were you all this time?' 'Oh, I 
worked at Acquia Creek.' 'What were you working?' 



Io8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

'Unloadingf boats.' 'What did you leave for?' 'Oh 
my! So much shooting; not used to dem big guns. I 
was nearly skeered to death.' 

"Just before starting again on our march, General Mit- 
chell brought a bill to Colonel Jennings for a mile and a 
half of fence, 7 cords of hickory wood, 45 hogs and pigs, 
21 sheep, 3 calves, 100 fowls and 5 slaves. The bill was 
shown to each of the field officers, and then quietly pock- 
eted by the Colonel. I do not think that the Colonel ever 
gave it any further consideration. Certainly it was not 
approved by him, or by the commander of the 127th Regi- 
ment." 

December 4th, the regiment made an early start, 
marched fourteen miles, and bivouaced for the night. The 
following morning the regiment broke camp and marched 
to Liverpool Point on Potomac river, distant about seven 
miles, in a furious rain and snow storm. A steam trans- 
port was in waiting, and the regiment embarked and was 
conveyed down and across the Potomac river near Acquia 
Creek Landing, where the regiment encamped about one 
mile from Acquia Creek Station. December 6th, Satur- 
day, was a very cold day, with snow covering the ground. 
The regiment waited the arrival of the wagon train, and 
went through daily dress parade. On the arrival of the 
supplies and wagon train, the regiment, on the 8th of De- 
cember, broke camp at eight A. M., and marched about 
eight miles, (three miles unnecessarily, having missed the 
right trail), and camped for the night. Our progress was 
slow in consequence of the great movement of an immense 
body of troops, which, with the wagon trains, jammed the 
roads and made marching exceedingly slow work. The 
regiment had now reached the great body of the Army of 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. IO9 

the Potomac. Every hill top and the slopes were dotted 
with tents, and the country as far as the eye could reach, 
seemed literally one mass of camps and troops. It was 
one inspiring scene, and the well-drilled soldier was now 
made to feel that he would soon have his training practi- 
cally tested. Rubbing up against the old experienced 
fighters did the men good, and made them ambitious to 
practice their courage on the enemy, and show their com- 
rades-in-arms that they too were fully equal to the occa- 
sion. 

December 9th, the regiment broke camp at dawn, and, 
although the horses had no hay since the regiment crossed 
the Potomac, "forward'' was the command, and forward 
the regiment marched until it reached its destination, about 
noon, when the brigade, which Colonel Jennings had com- 
manded for nearly four months, was broken up and dis- 
tributed among the old brigades of the army; and the 
127th Regiment, P. V., was assigned to the third brigade, 
commanded by Colonel Hall, of the Regular Army; in 
the second division, commanded by Major-General How- 
ard; in the Second Army Corps, Commanded by Major- 
General D, N. Couch. 

We soon learned that the Second Corps was the fighting 
corps of the Army of the Potomac; and that it was in- 
variably in the van, and opened battle; or in a retreat, that 
It was assigned to cover the retreat. After marching 
three and a half miles, we reached our place of rendezvous 
and were assigned a scope of ground on a little elevation, 
on the extreme right of the brigade, about a mile north of 
the hill overlooking Falmouth, and in full view of the 
city of Fredericksburg and the Rappahannock river. The 
ground was covered with an undergrowth, and filled with 
the stumps of trees, which had been cut by the army for 



IIO MEMORIAL HISTORY 

fuel; leaving stumps innumerable from three to four feet 
in height. This place was named "Camp Alleman," in 
honor of the Lieutenant-Colonel of the Regiment. 

Our subsequent marches were comparatively short; 
but some of them of the most exciting character; while 
others were full of interesting incidents. 

The short march, when we were aroused about four 
o'clock in the morning of December nth, and marched to 
the rear of the Lacey House, and every one of the regi- 
ment knew that we were going into an engagement, was 
memorable, as every man nerved himself for the terrible 
ordeal. We marched light, that is, we left our tents 
standing, and everything in camp which we did not abso- 
lutely need; but weighted down with ninety rounds of 
ammunition, filling our cartridge boxes, and what space 
was left, with six days' cooked rations, which more than 
filled the haversacks, went into the knapsacks. 

The continued march on and over the pontoon bridge, 
the field and staff officers mounted, Colonel Jennings and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman taking the place of the band 
and drum corps, and leading the regiment, amid the 
thundering roar of cannon on both sides of the river, with 
bullets whizzing as thick as hail, from the rifles of the 
sharp-shooters, was intensely thrilling, and very trying to 
the nerves ; as not a shot could be fired by our men until 
the opposite side of the river was reached. The pontoons 
rocked from the tread of the horses and men ; but the 
steadiness of the men during this trying experience was 
truly and eminently praiseworthy. 

The marches on the Fredericksburg battle field are em- 
bodied in the thrilling description of that famous battle; 
and the return march to Camp Alleman was full of mel- 
ancholy incidents, intensified by the sadness of an en- 



i27TII REGIMENT, P. V. Ill 

forced and ignominious retreat. The regiment left camp 
long before daylight on the nth of December, with full 
ranks, brim full of enthusiasm, and with laudable deter- 
mination to fight and win, or bravely die in the attempt. 

Both officers and men did their full duty ; but the odds 
of position was too strongly against them, and they were 
compelled to fall back, or be ruthlessly mowed down, 
without the shadow of a chance to capture the foes, so 
strongly entrenched, that their lines were practically im- 
pregnable. 

The regiment returned to Camp Alleman on the i6th 
of December, not in a compact phalanx, as it started, only 
five days before; but mostly in detachments, squads, in 
couples and singly. Some were borne on the shoulders of 
their stalwart comrades; some hobbled into camp as best 
they could; and when roll-call was sounded, there was 
ominous silence when the names of the missing, the 
wounded, the dying and the dead were called; and even 
those who providentially escaped unscathed, answered to 
their names in bated breath, as their hearts were saddened 
and their spirits broken, not only on witnessing the appall- 
ing scenes of suffering, horror, and death upon the bloody 
field of Fredericksburg, but the painful knowledge of de- 
feat made every man a sincere mourner ; and with the en- 
vironment of distress, he could not escape the feeling of 
bitter sadness. 

The marches of the early days in May, 1863, were, only 
in a less exciting degree, but a repetition of the Freder- 
icksburg campaign. True, the men profited by the sad, 
sad experiences of the past, and inured themselves to the 
hardships of a soldier, determined to do their duty ; but it 
was the same old, old story, "we buried our comrades on 
the battle field, and the other absentees are in the hospi- 



112 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

tals." But they bore up better, as the part which they 
took in the disastrous battle of Chancellorsville was a vic- 
tory, and they smiled and triumphed over their success. 

Camp Alleman and Camp Rohrer were successively 
abandoned; and on the return of the regiment from the 
Southern shore of the Rappahannock, they formed a new 
camp, and named it "Camp J, Wesley Awl," in honor of 
the gallant captain of Company "B." 

The men felt proud of their record, in engaging the 
enemy after the term of their enlistment. Although the 
regiment was formally organized on the i6th of August, 
1862, and, as a regiment, its term expired on the 15th of 
May, 1863, yet the date of muster of the company organi- 
zations were mostly during the first week in August, while 
the bulk of the men were mustered into the service the last 
week in July, and the first two days in August. When 
the order came to go forth to battle, not an officer or a 
single man complained, or set up the plea of "term of en- 
listment expired." 

After resting in camp, or performing daily picket duty, 
the following order was read by acting Adjutant A. J. 
Fager at dress parade on the 13th of May, 1863. 

"General Orders No. 77. 

"Headquarters Second Division, Second Corps, 

"Near Falmouth, Va., May 13, 1863. 

"The Adjutant-General's office having corrected the 
date at which the time of the 127th Regiment P. V. ex- 
pires, and decided, after representations made from the 
headquarters, that the term expires on the 14th inst. in- 
stead of the 20th inst., the regiment is hereby relieved 
from all duty with this army, and will repair to Harris- 
burg, Penn'a, there to be mustered out of service. 



127TH REGIMENT, 1>. V. 1I3 

"In bidding farewell to this regiment the General com- 
manding the Division recalls with pride and satisfaction 
that, although in it, as well as in several other regiments 
in the service, a difference of opinion has existed in re- 
gard to the expiration of the time of the men; this differ- 
ence has never interfered with their duty as soldiers, and 
they now can return to their homes with the proud con- 
sciousness of duty well and faithfully performed. 

"Your comrades will be glad to welcome you back to 
their ranks. 

"By command of 

Brigadier General Gibbon, 
"J. P. Wood, Capt. and Asst. Adj't-Gen'l." 
"Headquarters 3d Brigade Division, 
"May 13, 1863. 
"Official. W. R. Driver, Act. Asst. Adj't-Gen'l." 

An order was issued that same evening to "strike tents" 
at daylight the next morning; and at 5.30 o'clock the regi- 
ment was in column and started on the march for Fal- 
mouth station. There were no stragglers. The whole 
regiment united in singing "Home, Sweet Home," and on 
reaching the station, boarded the train in readiness for 
them, at 7.30 for Acquia Creek, and at 9 o'clock embarked 
on a steamer, and steamed up the river for Washington 
City — a very pleasant sail up the Potomac, in strong con- 
trast to the cold and stormy experience in crossing that 
river in the previous December. When we passed Mount 
Vernon, the band played a funeral dirge in honor of the 
immortal Washington. 

We arrived at the Sixth street wharf in Washington 
about two P. M. on Thursday, May 14, and after disem- 
barking, the regiment marched in four ranks up Sixth 



114 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Street to Pennsylvania avenue, and out the avenue to the 
Soldiers' Retreat, in a furious thunder and rain storm; 
but these veterans marched steadily forward, and paid no 
more attention to the driving rain and blinding flashes of 
lightning, as though they were in their natural element. 
Resting at the Retreat until next morning, transportation 
was furnished over the Northern Central Railway. Al- 
though the regiment left Washington for Baltimore on 
train of open freight cars, fitted with seats formed of 
rough boards, crossing the sides of the cars, at seven 
o'clock in the morning, the regiment only arrived in Balti- 
more at two P. M., where the regiment was detained until 
eleven o'clock at night ; and day break on Saturday morn- 
ing found us only five miles north of Baltimore. The 
train afterwards moved more rapidly, and reached York 
about ten o'clock, where it was received by a committee of 
distinguished citizens, who, after giving the regiment a 
hearty welcome, escorted it to Harrisburg, which was 
reached about 1.30 P. M. amid the firing of a cannon sa- 
lute on Capitol Hill, the ringing of bells, and the cheers of 
tens of thousands of friends, who had gathered to join 
them in the glad welcome. 

The regiment was quickly formed into column with 
Colonel Jennings and Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman mount- 
ed in the lead ; the band and drum corps in their glory, the 
regiment to a man in ranks, with Major Rohrer on his 
horse in place, and as a procession had already been 
formed and in waiting, under the chief marshalship of 
Colonel Henry McCormick, assisted by Dr. George Dock, 
Dr. George Bailey and William C. McFadden as assistant 
marshals, marched up Market street over the program 
route to Third, and out North Third street to the front of 
the Capitol, where an oflicial reception took place. 



127X11 REGIMENT. l\ V. 1 15 

Colonel Jennings joined Governor Curtin, and turned 
the command over to Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, who 
led the regiment over the further designated route, laid 
out by the chief marshal ; and on reaching Market Square, 
gave orders to Adjutant Chayne to permit the captains to 
grant the men leave of absence, to report in Camp Curtin 
punctually on Monday morning. He then gave the last 
regimental command on the march, "Halt!"' when the or- 
ders were quickly conveyed to each captain, and the men 
were relieved from duty until the following Monday 
morning, and permitted tO' go to their homes. 

On Monday morning, the i8th of May, 1863, the regi- 
ment assembled informally on State street, without arms, 
left in front, and marched to the late home of Sergeant 
Chas. B. Hummel, of Company "D," who was killed at 
Chancellorsville, whose body was brought to Harrisburg, 
and the regiment attended the funeral. After the funeral, 
the regiment marched to Camp Curtin, pitched their 
tents, and this was the very last march of the 127th Regi- 
ment of Pennsvlvania Volunteers. 



CHAPTER IV. 



TlHREE separate and distinct accounts of the great 
I battle of Fredericksburg were prepared, the one 
^^^1 by Comrade George D. Rise, the regimental his- 
torian; another at the request of Colonel Wil- 
liam W. Jennings was prepared by Lieutenant-Colonel 
H. C. Alleman, which received the approval of Colonel 
Jennings, and was adopted by the regimental historian; 
while the third account was taken from the diary of Ma- 
jor J. Rohrer ; and from these three well prepared sketches 
the following account has been compiled. 



BATTLE OF FREDERICKSBURG. 



When Colonel Jennings' brigade reported at Falmouth, 
Virginia, December 9th, 1862, his several regiments had 
the numbers of a veteran Division, and for effective work, 
those regiments were distributed among the brigades of 
the Grand Division commanded by Major-General 
Sumner. 

The 127th Regiment was assig-ned to the Third Brigade 
commanded by Colonel Norman J. Hall, a cavalry officer 
of the Regular Army, and Colonel of the Seventh Michi- 
gan, of the Second Division commanded by Major-Gen- 
eral O. O. Howard, of the Second Army Corps, con- 
manded by Major-General Darius N. Couch — in the 
Grand Division of Major-General Sumner — of the Army 
of the Potomac — commanded by Major-General Ambrose 
E. Burnside. 

The Third Brigade comprised the 7th Regiment Michi- 
gan Volunteers, Colonel Norman J. Hall ; 19th Regiment 

116 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V, 1 1? 

Massachusetts Volunteers, Colonel Arthur F. Devereux; 
20th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, Colonel George 
N. Macy; 42d Regiment New York Volunteers, Colonel 
James E. Mallon; 127th Regiment Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, Colonel William W. Jennings ; 59th Regiment New 
York Volunteers, Colonel Max A. Thornan. 

The Army of the Potomac was divided into three 
grand divisions, the Right Grand Division was commanded 
by Major-General Sumner; the Left Grand Division by 
Major-General Franklin ; and the Center Grand Division 
was commanded by Major-General Hooker; while Major- 
General Sigel commanded a strong force of reserves. 

The right of the army was at Camp Alleman, one and a 
half miles north of Falmouth, and within cannon range of 
the Confederates across the Rappahannock river. The 
enemy threatened to shell General Couch's headquarters, 
and gave him twenty-four hours to move his family. 

During the night of December loth, the engineers com- 
menced laying pontoon bridges in front of the city of 
Fredericksburg. Before they reached mid-stream of the 
Rappahannock river, the workmen were repeatedly driven 
from the pontoons by the enemy's sharpshooters, concealed 
in houses along the water's edge ; and about four o'clock 
on the morning of the nth, they were again compelled to 
abandon the work. 

About the same hour, the Third Brigade marched from 
their respective camps for the scene of the pontoon bridge, 
reaching there about daybreak. 

On the loth of December, the 127th Regiment received 
orders to march at sharp six o'clock on the following 
morning, with four days' cooked rations in their haver- 
sacks. A small guard of convalescents were left in 
charge of the camp ; and the early dawn of that day found 



Il8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the regiment winding its way along the ravine, until it 
reached a point directly opposite the center of Fredericks- 
burg, on the plane of the Lacey House, where it was as- 
signed to the support of an eight-gun battery of heavy 
artillery. 

Before eight A. jM. the cannonading opened. It was a 
beautiful sight — every road and every hill visible was filled 
with troops. 

Defeated in his efforts to build the bridges, General 
Burnside ordered up his heavy guns, and opened fire upon 
the city, and during the bombardment, the 127th Regi- 
ment valiantly performed its assigned duty in support of 
artillery. 

The bombardment of Fredericksburg was a magnificent 
war spectacle; 140 cannon were firing continuously on the 
city, and on the heights in the rear, where Lee's army was 
entrenched, and this dreadful artillery duel was kept up 
incessantly for some eight hours, with no apparent effect. 
The artificial thunder was terrific, and Fredericksburg 
seemed doomed to total destruction; but the persistent 
sheJling did not have the desired effect of dislodging 
Barksdale's Mississippi sharpshooters, who were securely 
intrenched in deep rifle pits along the whole front of the 
city, and occupied the line of houses on the river front, 
preventing, by their continuous and well-aimed shots, the 
completion of the pontoon bridges. 

Many and heroic attempts were made by the engineers 
and the pontoniers to complete the building of the 
bridges; but the raking and concentrated fire from the 
sharpshooters in ambush, swept the half completed 
bridges, which were occupied with construction parties, 
who were only partially concealed by the dense smoke 
which settled; but it had the happy effect of somewhat 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I IQ 

veiling the scene, and lessening the sense of actual danger. 

When it became painfully evident that our heavy can- 
nonading, and well-directed artillery fire failed to quiet 
the rifles of the expert sharpshooters, heroic measures 
were taken to enforce silence. A call was made for three 
hundred volunteers from the Third Brigade, about three 
P. M., and scores upon scores of the 127th Regiment vol- 
unteered for the "forlorn hope"; but only a limited num- 
ber could be accepted, as the veteran regiments were given 
the preference; so that but a squad of the 127th Regiment, 
under the leadership of the intrepid Porter Buchanan, of 
Company "F," were permitted to join their fellow brigade 
comrades of the 7th Michigan, the 19th and 20th Massa- 
chusetts contingent, who, at about 3.30 o'clock P. M., 
sprang into the few pontoons within reach, poled them- 
selves quickly across the river, unmindful of the leaden 
shower of bullets poured upon them, and after a short, but 
desperate fight at the point of the bayonet, courageously 
drove the sharpshooters from the rifle pits and their hid- 
ing places, enabling the engineers and pontoniers in their 
ninth effort to complete their work before sundown. 

The "Forlorn Hope," besides accomplishing its mission, 
captured upwards of fifty prisoners, and brought them 
across the river. 

Our Third Brigade was the first to cross the pontoons, 
the 127th Regiment was on the left of the brigade, in num- 
bers equal to any three regiments of the brigade. 

As the 127th Regiment was in readiness to dash across 
the pontoon bridge immediately on its completion, on the 
first moment of signal, both officers and men were eager 
for the fray. On descending the embankment, the regi- 
ment was saluted by a shower of shells, one of which fell 
directly under the Colonel's horse, but fortunately did not 



120 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

explode. The regimental band was ordered to take its 
position at the first pontoon of the lower bridge, and to 
fall in the rear, and cross with the regiment. Major-Gen- 
eral O. O. Howard, commanding the Second Division, 
with his full staff, mounted, were at the end of the bridge 
to encourage and review the crossing troops. The signal 
was given, and instantly Colonel W. W. Jennings and 
Lieutenant-Colonel H. C. Alleman rode side by side at the 
head of the regiment ; and on reaching the bridge, the band 
played "Yankee Doodle," the Colonel and Lieutenant- 
Colonel saluting the General, rode on the pontoon bridge, 
followed by the regiment, amid volleys of rifle balls from 
the returned sharpshooters, and an avalanche of shells. 
Captain Fox, of Company "K,'' was the first regimental 
victim of the Confederate shells; while another shell 
passed through the bass drum of the band, and completely 
silenced "Yankee Doodle" for the remainder of that day. 

The men naturally dodged their heads as the shells 
came whizzing — it being their first experience under fire. 
General Howard sat on his horse at the water edge of the 
first pontoon, and as the men were dodging, called out to 
them, "Don't dodge, men, the shells are not half as dan- 
gerous as they seem." Just then a shell passed over the 
General's head, and he dodged, when one of the boys of 
the regiment yelled, "Don't dodge. General, that shell is 
not half as dangerous as it seems." The General smiled 
and said, "Dodging appears to be natural." 

The Third Brigade of the Second Division of the Sec- 
ond Army Corps reached and mounted the southern em- 
bankment about five P. M., and it charged upon and drove 
the enemy from Fredericksburg, clearing one-half of the 
city before midnight; the 127th Regiment taking an active 
and most efficient part in the successful charge. The 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 121 

regiment was fired on from cellars and from windows in 
orthodox bushwhacking style. These guerrillas were, how- 
ever, soon silenced, and the close of the day found Colonel 
Hall in full possession of one-half of the city, enabling the 
remaining troops of General Sumner's Grand Division to 
cross the pontoon bridges in safety. The regiment having 
satisfactorily completed the duty assigned to it, with some 
attendant losses, was ordered to the river front, some 
time after dark, to wait there for further developments. 

On the bank of the Rappahannock just south of the 
lower pontoon bridge, stood an old two-story stone house, 
which had the lower front knocked out of it, together with 
most of the upper story during the bombardment. The 
lower corner near the ground was entirely carried away, 
so that the house was standing on three corners. Quite 
a number of our men had taken refuge in it, and were 
eating their rations in the dark. Major Rohrer came 
along, seeing the danger, said to the boys, "This house 
stands only on three corners, and is dangerous, so you had 
better get out." The house was promptly vacated. The 
cannon balls and shells had crushed in the stone wall, and 
the large chimney in the center of the house was demol- 
ished, while upstairs, amongst the debris, were found 
bodies of twenty-eight dead Confederates ; and one man in 
the comer, with both legs shot off above the knees, begged 
to be shot — the poor fellow bled to death in a very few 
minutes. 

Shortly afterwards, an order was received detailing 
Colonel Jennings as provost marshal of Fredericksburg, 
and L.ieutenant-Colonel Alleman was placed in command 
of the regiment, with which the Colonel made his head- 
quarters. 

About eleven P. M. orders were received to take the 
i 



122 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

regiment to Caroline street, left in front. Company "D" 
was placed on a cross street, and Company "H" on the op- 
posite side of the street, one block further on, for patrol 
duty. Company "II" detailed Sergeant Cover and eight 
men of Company "H" with whom were two men of Com- 
pany "K," to patrol one block. After patrolling it several 
times, the Sergeant concluded to take his men a square 
further on, and as they marched through the second 
square, a patrol of about twenty Confederates — indistin- 
guishable in the dark — came around the opposite corner. 
They called, "Halt! who comes there?" Sergeant Cover 
supposing that they were our men, responded, "Friends 
without the countersign, advance!" The Confederates 
advanced — and gobbled up the patrol. They were after- 
wards paroled and returned home from Libby prison 
about the same time that the regiment was mustered out 
of service. 

The provost marshal and the commandant of the regi- 
ment took possession of an abandoned, well furnished 
mansion on Caroline street, and made it their headquarters 
for the night. The following day, the three field officers, 
with Adjutant Chayne, Horace Jones and several others 
of the regiment took possession of the Alsop House, a 
stately empty corner mansion, one block south of Caroline 
street, in the aristocratic part of the city. This three-story 
pretentious building, with a frontage of about fifty feet, 
had evidently only been vacated that day in frightened 
haste. The larder was well provided, the officers made 
themselves comfortable, and did ample justice to the fa- 
vored opportunity. The regiment was comfortably quar- 
tered, after a brigade requisition for a strong detail for 
picket, patrol, and guard duty was duly honored. 

Early on Saturday morning, a Major-General expressed 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1 23 

a decided preference for this mansion as his headquarters, 
and it was generously given up to him ; so the field officers 
vacated and took possession of another well furnished 
house near the center of the city on Caroline street, and 
made it the headquarters of the regiment, as well as the 
office of the provost marshal. 

The regiment held itself in constant readiness during the 
I2th to march at a moment's notice, bivouacking in the 
street. On Saturday morning, the bloody 13th of Decem- 
ber, an order reached the regiment of its temporary de- 
tachment from Colonel Hall's brigade, and assignment to 
the brigade of General Joshua T. Owen. About nine 
o'clock that morning General Owen, accompanied by sev- 
eral staff officers, paid an official visit to the regiment, 
confirming the assignment, and congratulating himself 
upon securing such a "splendid body of men," as he prop- 
erly designated the 127th Regiment. He made a short, 
patriotic speech to the regiment, cheering them, and pro- 
phetically declaring that the 13th day of December would 
be a memorable day in American history; and that it 
would be the "baptismal day in blood of the 127th Regi- 
ment." He spoke strong words of encouragement, and ap- 
pealed to the patriotism and courage of the men to stand 
firm and fight bravely in honor of the flag, and in defense 
of the Government. 

The Grand Division of General Sumner occupied Fred- 
ericksburg, with General Couch's Second Corps on the 
right, and General Wilcox's Ninth Corps on the left. Gen- 
eral Hooker's Grand Division supported Sumner with his 
line extending to General Franklin's Left Grand Division. 

General Lee had the advantage of position.. The cap- 
ture of Fredericksburg was comparatively unimportant 
to him. Longstreet's Corps occupied Marie's Heights, 



124 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

joined on the right by Stonewall Jackson^s Corps. Fred- 
ericksburg and its approaches were covered by the 300 
cannon in position on the Heights ; while the enemy's line, 
of crescent shape, extended to the river, both above and 
below the city, enabling them to operate not only from the 
Heights, but from both the right and left flanks. 

The morning was foggy and the air was crisp. Neither 
army was visible to the other by reason of the fog. About 
ten o'clock, however, the heavy fog began to lift, and 
shortly afterwards active preparations were plainly visible 
on Marie's Hill for hot work during the day. Desultory 
firing had been heard all morning, and by eleven o'clock 
the cannonading was general on both sides. 

General Franklin, commanding the left Grand Division, 
was ordered to cross the Rappahannock at Deep Run, or 
Belle Plain, and was expected to open the engagement, and 
turn Lee's right wing, when he would be compelled to 
evacuate his stronghold on Marie's Heights. For some 
reason or other, General Franklin did not seem to under- 
stand it that way. The Left Grand Division crossed the 
river the preceding day and night on two pontoon bridges, 
and the last of the Grand Division to cross those tempo- 
rary bridges were the "Pennsylvania Reserve Corps." 

General Franklin had been re-enforced by two divisions 
from General Hooker, so that his force numbered about 
54,000 men. General Meade, in command of the Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves, supported by Generals Gibbon and 
Doubleday, aggregating a force of 16,000 men, made an 
advance. They passed on through, opened the fight, 
crossed five rifle pits, down the plain and back of a wood 
across the railway, up to Lee's military road, so that the 
first Confederate line was actually pierced; and if it had 
been properly supported, Meade would have accomplished 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I25 

the purpose of the attack. But Stonewall Jackson turned 
the left wing of the Pennsylvania Reserves, and got in 
their rear. The Confederates were re-enforced, and 
Ewell's division of Early's coqDs was hurled against 
Meade's forces, compelling him to fall back with heavy 
loss; and, although Birney, who came to his assistance, 
and made a gallant charge, and turned the tide of battle, 
yet the increasing forces of the enemy were too great to 
withstand, and their over-powering numbers compelled 
Meade, who was practically unsupported, to retreat with 
his gallant force, so that all the advantages of the recon- 
noisance in force were lost. Had they been properly sup- 
ported, as intended, the battle of Fredericksburg might 
have been won. Just why the bulk of the Grand Division 
were permitted to quiescently look on, allowing the Re- 
serves to be slaughtered has never been satisfactorily ex- 
plained, although it is well understood that General 
Franklin had orders which were conditional in character, 
and those conditions, it appears, were not fulfilled. 

Colonel Jennings requested to be relieved as provost 
marshal. His request was granted, and he afterwards led 
the regiment in a quick march out Hanover street, and 
into Telegraph road, leading directly in the face of the 
enemy, who were strongly entrenched on Marie's Heights. 

In strict requirement of special orders, none of the Field 
officers of the brigade were mounted. 

Shortly before noon. General Owen rode up to the regi- 
ment and said, "Colonel Jennings, your regiment is now 
wanted." The command was given, "Attention, left in 
front, two ranks." General Owen then addressed the men 
in riding along the line of the regiment, "Men, if you will 
leave your knapsacks and store them in some building, it 
will relieve you very much." Accordingly many of the 
men placed their knapsacks in an empty house at hand. 



126 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

The 127th Regiment moved out on the street of many 
churches and the Richmond pike and on a double quick. 
They passed through frightful scenes, which stamped 
themselves indelibly upon the memories of each and every 
one in that column. On our left the artillery was strung 
along the curbstone, ready to take position. Shells were 
flying over our heads and among us continuously ; horses 
were cut up by shells, and the dead men were lying pro- 
miscuously over the ground; while wounded men were 
brought in on the sidewalks from the field; but the men 
had no time to meditate, they hurried on, nearly out of 
breath, up the street, and, on the outskirts of Fredericks- 
burg, were confronted by a deep water mill-race, fully ten 
feet wide seemingly imgassable, except at a broken or 
torn up bridge, the planks and the flooring all removed, 
which, notwithstanding the scathing fire in front, was 
crossed single file on the stringers, all the while exposed 
to the furious fire of artillery from the Heights, supple- 
mented by a flank fire operated from a deflection in the 
high grounds to the right. Both officers and men were 
obliged to wade or cross on these slender stringers to get 
over the mill-race. There was a high board fence at the 
fork of the Telegraph road beyond the mill-race. The 
regiment was marched by the flank, and was deployed to 
the left, down along the mill-race about one hundred 
yards. 

Repeated attempts were made to pierce the center, and 
carry the Heights by direct assault, which were made first 
by the Division of General French, and then followed by 
General Hancock with his Division. These failing, Gen- 
eral Howard, with the Second Division of the Second 
Army Corps made a determined and desperate effort to 
accomplish the pet idea of General Burnside, and make 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 1 27 

a lodgment on Marie's Hill. These repeated attempts 
were made after the lifting of the fog; but each of these 
three desperate and determined assaults unfortunately 
failed. 

General Owen formed our men in line of battle, the 
127th Regiment on the left of the io6th Pennsylvania. 

The command was given, "forward, right shoulder 
shift, double quick, march." The line charged to the 
front, and in the best possible order, went over, through 
and under the high board fence, saluted by a furious 
storm of leaden hail, varied by bursting shells, over, 
around and among them, seemingly drawing the concen- 
trated fire of the enemy as it marched up the hill in ad- 
mirable dress parade alignment. Shoulder to shoulder 
the gallant men quickly closed up the ranks as their com- 
rades fell bleeding and dying. Here was heroism exem- 
plified in the unflinching devotion to duty — braving inevi- 
table death while making the memorable, but desperate 
charge, on, up to within seventy-five yards of the enemy's 
line. The advance of those gallant men was the perfection 
of discipline and patriotism ; they faced death like heroes. 
It is difficult to picture the thrilling scenes; and words 
fail to adequately describe the fearful carnage and the 
dreadful slaughter in that superb charge on the slope of 
Marie's Heights. The officers who commanded, as well 
as the men, well knew that the charge was into the very 
jaws of death; yet they gallantly pressed forward, un- 
mindful of anything but duty. On they rushed, line after 
line, and column after column ; and the ground seemed to 
swallow up the brave men as they were ruthlessly shot 
down from the terrific fire of the enemy, who handled 
their cannon with skill, and did most effective work at 
close range; but our brave boys stood up, and gallantly 



128 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

advanced, only to be mowed down in death. Here was 
fought probably the hottest fight of one of the fiercest 
battles that ever raged. In ten minutes, during that mag- 
nificent charge, the Union troops lost upwards of 2,000 
men in killed and wounded. 

They marched up grade about 800 yards, a small brick 
house to the right served as a rallying point for the at- 
tack. The fork in the road, and the brick house were less 
than 150 yards from the stone wall. A little in advance 
of the brick house, there was a rift in the ground, afford- 
ing a slight protection to men, lying down, against the 
musketry from behind the stone wall ; but not against the 
converging fire of the artillery on the heights. 

At this time Generals Couch and Howard, who had 
climbed the steeple of the court house, got a clear view of 
the field from above the haze and smoke which had 
shrouded the entire slope. General Howard exclaimed, 
"Oh, great God ! see how our men, our poor fellows are 
falling." General Couch in his report states, "The whole 
plain was covered with men, prostrate and dropping; the 
live men running here and there, and in front closing up- 
on each other; and the wounded coming back. I have 
never seen fighting like that; nothing approaching it in 
terrible uproar and destruction. There was little cheering 
on the part of our men ; but a stubborn determination to 
obey orders and to do their duty." 

The Confederate General McLaws in his report says, 
"My line of defence was a broken one, running from the 
left along the sunken road near the foot of Marie's Hill, 
where General Cobb's brigade was stationed. During the 
1 2th, the defences of this line had been strengthened be- 
yond the hills by an embankment thrown up to protect the 
right from sharpshooters, as also to resist assaults that 



I27Tri REGIMENT, P. V. 1 29 

might be made from that direction ; and then the line was 
retired a hundred or more yards to the foot of the hills 
in the rear, along which was extended Kershaw's brigade 
of South Carolina troops, and General Barksdale's Mis- 
sissippians, from left to right, the brigade of General 
Semmes being held in reserve. The Washington artil- 
lery, under Colonel Walton, were in position on the crest 
of Marie's Hill, over the heads of Cobb's men, and two 
brigades under General Ransom were here held in reserve. 
The Heights above Kershaw and Barksdale were crowned 
with eighteen rifle gims and eight smooth bores belonging 
to batteries, and a number of smooth bores from the re- 
serve artillery. The troops could not be well seen by the 
Union forces, and the artillery on my rear line was mostly 
concealed, some covered with brush. The Union troops, 
from their position, could not see the sunken road near the 
foot of Marie's Hill, nor do I think they were aware, until 
it was made known to them by our fire, that there was 
an infantry force anywhere except on top of the hill, as 
Ransom's troops could not be seen in reserve, and the 
men in the sunken road were visible at a short distance 
only from it." 

General Longstreet, the Confederate corps commander, 
in his report of the masterly charge made by the Union 
troops states that the gaps torn in our lines could be dis- 
tinctly seen in his position a mile away, caused not only by 
the artillery fire, but at the base of Marie's Hill there was 
a stone wall, behind which were entrenched a strong force 
of Confederate infantry, from which withering musketry 
firing poured its leaden hail, tearing great gaps in our 
ranks. He further reported, "With each charge on 
Marie's Hill the Federals came nearer than before, but 
were forced to retire before the well directed fire of 



130 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Cobb's and Kershaw's brigades and of our artillery. By the 
end of the fifth charge, the ground was so thickly strewn 
with dead that the bodies seriously impeded the approach 
of more troops. After the sixth charge and repulse, night 
put an end to the conflict and the dreadful carnage, and 
the Federals withdrew, leaving the battle field literally 
heaped with the bodies of their dead. Our musketry 
alone killed and wounded at least 5,000; and these, with 
the slaughter of the artiller}^, left over 7,000 killed and 
wounded before the foot of Marie's Hill. The dead were 
piled, sometimes three deep, and when morning broke, 
the spectacle that we saw upon the battlefield was one of 
the most distressing that I ever witnessed. The charges 
had been desperate and bloody, but utterly hopeless. I 
thought, as I saw the Federals come again and again to 
their death, that they deserved success if courage and 
daring could entitle soldiers to victory." 

The incessant showers of leaden hail were here and now 
beyond human endurance, and the general order came, 
"Drop prostrate upon the ground and protect yourselves;" 
so the men endeavored to screen themselves from the 
deadly balls and shells by crouching behind the dead 
bodies of men and horses, lying thick all over the field. 
This was the only possible hope of avoiding instant death ; 
and in this perilous position nearly sixty rounds of am- 
munition were fired by our regiment at the enemy, when 
Colonel Jennings gave the command, "Cease firing." The 
mud was several inches deep from the melting of the 
snow; but we were compelled to lie in that mud or be 
destroyed. 

In this exposed position the regiment remained for five 
hours, resisting as best they could, a pitiless fire of mus- 
ketry and artillery. Cannonading was deafening, and play- 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. I3I 

ed havoc both from the enemy's guns in the front, and 
from ours in the rear, while every head raised a few inches 
from the ground was a target for the sharpshooters, 
perched in trees, and more or less shielded within the en- 
emy's lines. Lieutenant Shoemaker, unguardedly lifting 
his head to take an observation, received a Minie ball in 
the forehead, killing him instantly. The regiment held its 
respective positions unflinchingly for those deadly five 
hours, suffering severely, and chaffing for an opportunity 
to do retributive damage. 

This splendid heroism failed to meet its purpose. The 
triumphant Confederates, safe in their rocky shelter, 
shouted and yelled in their triumph; while our men felt 
that they were targets for the merciless enemy's balls and 
shells, without being able to make any impression upon 
the foe. To lie still and tamely submit tO' be shot at, was a 
terrible strain to the strongest nerves, and a trying or- 
deal to the bravest of the brave. 

Shortly before five o'clock, the Third Brigade of the 
Second Division of the Second Army Corps, to which the 
127th Regiment belonged, but from which it was tempo- 
rarily detached for this battle, made a charge, with the 
19th and 20th Massachusetts regiments on the right, and 
the 42d New York, or Tammany, regiment, on the left, 
passing through and over our line. They endeavored to 
form a section of an advance line, on reaching which, 
however, they were met by a terrific fire. In charging 
through our line, they said, "Lie still, boys," and passed 
through, cheering. The 42d New York came back al- 
most instantly in great confusion, and then the Massachu- 
setts regiments, crying "Retreat ! Retreat !" In their de- 
moralized condition they broke, rushed back, trampling on 
our men, and in the confusion forced a great portion of 
the regiment out of their position, carrying some of it, in 



132 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the sweep, with them. Company "B," being on the ex- 
treme left, was not reached, and so was luckily saved from 
being forced out of its place. This retreat gave encour- 
agement to the enemy, and the fearful fire which was 
poured into the front line, which stormed the stone wall, 
drove them back in confusion, carrying the remnant of the 
regiment with them. As the men hearing the order, "re- 
treat," concluded that it was given by authority, they 
acted accordingly, and some of them got mixed up among 
the brigade. The Colonel was with the color bearer. Ser- 
geant Schaefifer, who held the colors when the bulk of the 
regiment fell back, but when it was reformed by the Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel and the Major at the base of the hill, im- 
mediately joined them. It was utterly impossible to live 
or stand up under such a murderous fire. The line was 
reformed along the mill-race, in good order, in readiness 
to renew the charge; but under instructions, they re- 
mained in line, holding themselves in readiness for the ex- 
pected order to again advance. It was there that Colonel 
Jennings was slightly wounded — a shell splinter pene- 
trated his boot and entered his instep. 

A section of artillery was brought in front of our battle 
line on our right, and after firing only a few shots, most 
of its men were killed or wounded. All of the horses were 
killed, and the guns were, later on, drawn away by the 
men. What the object was in bringing the artillery in 
front of the battle line where even infantry could not live, 
seemed inexplicable. 

Just as the sun was lowering over Marie's Heights, a 
Division, led by Major-General Howard on horse-back, 
came on the field cheering, but those cheers were very 
short lived. The whole range of Confederate artillery 
was put to work on this daring division, and notwith- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1 33 

Standing the gallantry of the officers in urgently rallying 
the men, they were so badly cut up, that the regiments 
could not be held together. General Meagher's brigade 
suffered severely. There was terrible slaughter, and noth- 
ing beyond brave acts of heroism was gained. 

The ground, as far as the eye could reach, was thickly 
strewn with the dead and the dying; and the heart-rend- 
ing shrieks and moans of the sufferers struck terror into 
the most callous hearts, causing a sickening sensation, 
and, intensifying through the ear, the ghastly horrors 
everywhere visible to the eye. 

While the explicit orders from General Owen, our tem- 
porary brigade commander, prohibited officers taking 
their horses on the battle field, like orders were either not 
issued to other brigades, or else were unscrupulously dis- 
regarded ; for hundreds of dead and wounded horses were 
manifest over the field ; and, painfully sickening as were 
the cries, the shrieks and the agonizing groans of the 
wounded men : they were not comparable to the frightful, 
nerve-distracting dying agonies of the wounded horses, 
which were heard and readily distinguishable over and 
above the human voices, even above the rattle of musketry 
and the terrible thunders from both mortars and cannon. 

Appalling as were the casualties, and the record of the 
dead and wounded for the day showed that the 127th 
Regiment suffered severely, and was entitled to rest; yet 
it remained on the field and ready for another charge until 
long after hostilities ceased, and hours after dark, when 
it was relieved, and then only, returned to its improvised 
quarters on Caroline street, better satisfied with its per- 
formed duty, than with the result of an ill-advised and 
badly planned, or wretchedly executed plan of battle. 
Both officers and men lay on their arms that night, in 



134 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

readiness for a renewal of the engagement. Darkness 
only put an end to the dreadful slaughter of that mem- 
orable day of horrors. 

Major W. Roy Mason, Confederate, writes, "The day 
after the battle, Sunday, I witnessed with pain the burial 
of many thousands of Federal dead that had fallen at 
Fredericksburg. The night before, the thermometer must 
have fallen to zero, and the bodies of the slain had frozen 
to the ground. The ground was frozen nearly a foot deep 
and it was necessary to use pick-axes. Trenches were dug 
on the battlefield, and the dead collected and laid in line for 
burial. It was a sad sight to see those brave soldiers thrown 
into the trenches, without even a blanket or a word of 
prayer, and the heavy clods thrown upon them; but the 
most sickening sight of all was when they threw the dead 
— some four or five hundred in number — into Wallace's 
empty ice house, where they were found, a hecatomb of 
skeletons, after the war." 

The knapsacks, as well as their blankets and belongings, 
which the boys stored, were stolen. There was nothing 
left of their efifects but what they had on their backs, and 
it took some ten days to get out a complete outfit for them 
again. This, too, in the rigors of winter. 

Although Colonel Jennings was one of the youngest 
Colonels, if not the youngest regimental commander, in 
that memorable battle, besides being the first time that he 
was under fire, he displayed remarkable coolness, great 
tact and conspicuous courage. He ordered the colors of the 
regiment to be kept flying, and bravely stood by them, 
with field glasses in hand, calmly surveying the field be- 
fore him, and deliberately issued his orders, regardless of 
the fact that he made a target of himself for sharpshoot- 
ers, and necessarily drew the fire of the enemy. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 135 

Marie's Heights is about a mile in the rear of Freder- 
icksburg; is a fine elevation of farm land, comprising a 
range of hills, studded with fine brick buildings, facing 
the city, with lofty trees along its front edge, and around 
the houses, which were owned by the wealthy citizens at 
that time, and was considered a very desirable locality for 
private residences. These Heights extended up the river 
beyond, opposite Falmouth, where they make a turn to 
the Rappahannock ; then extend southeast, below the city, 
wdiere a turn is made, nearly at right angles to the south- 
west, some distance, to a ravine, near the base of a blufif. 
A stone wall is built at the edge of the hill, running for 
miles above and below the city. The Richmond pike fol- 
lows this wall to the end. These Heights now belong to 
the United States Government, which converted the 
grounds into a National Cemetery, where there are now 
collected and buried over 15,000 Union dead, of which 
number over 12,000 are marked "unknown." This is ac- 
counted for, principally, by the robbery of the clothing 
and equipments of the Union dead, thus destroying all 
means of identification. 

These celebrated Heights were occupied by General 
Lee, with an army of about 79,000 men; and to storm 
them direct, or pierce the center on the Napoleonic idea, 
seemed like madness, without operating a large force of 
the army upon the right and left flanks of the enemy. 
From the stone wall, the ground rises gradually to the 
top. On the slope were two lines of rifle pits, dug all 
along the ridge, one above the other, which were well 
manned during the engagement. On the summit, siege 
guns and hundreds of other artillery pieces were placed 
in position to defend the entrenched, and annihilate those 
attacking their position. The Army of the Potomac faced 



136 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

those works in the middle of December, 1862, and again 
on May 3d, 1863. 

During Sunday, the 14th of December, there was quiet 
along the line. It was cold and foggy. A truce was de- 
clared for the purpose of burying the dead. Corporal 
Adam Camiany, of Company "E," was known to have 
been severely wounded in front of the stone wall at Ma- 
rie's Hill during Saturday afternoon; so permission was 
granted members of Company "E" who went in a fur- 
ther search for Corporal Carmany's body ; but were unable 
to find him. The official records report him "Wounded 
and missing in action," but he undoubtedly died within a 
few minutes after receiving his wound, which was con- 
sidered mortal. 

During the early morning, the enemy had stripped all 
of the Union dead of their clothing, which added to the 
difficulty of identifying any corpse. This is confirmed by 
the Century War History, which reports, "Nearly all of 
the dead were stripped entirely naked by the enemy. A 
woman who lived in one of the houses in front of the 
stone wall related, 'the evening after the battle, the field 
was blue with bodies ; but the morning after the battle, the 
field was white.' " 

Shortly after sun down, an order came to Lieutenant- 
Colonel Alleman, in command, to march the 127th Regi- 
ment back upon the battlefield, and place it in position on 
the advance line, relieving the 6th United States Regulars. 
When taps were sounded, it was presumed that the regi- 
ment would be rested for the night; but it was quickly 
formed in column and marched out the same street it had 
traversed the day before ; but the caution order was given 
for no man to speak above a whisper, and to march as 
quietly as possible. When the regiment reached the edge 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 137 

of the city, it was temporarily halted. To our left was a 
large frame house, set back a short distance, which was 
converted into a hospital. Here the surgeons cut off the 
arms and legs of the wounded by the cart loads. The cries 
of the patients were heart-rending, sounding like running 
the gamut, commencing in a high key, and gradually 
going down, down, until the voice was inaudible. It 
required nerve to hear all this, not knowing how soon we 
might be in the same hospital, or dead upon the field. 
Colonel Alleman gave the command, "Forward, March!" 
and leading the regiment, it picked its way through the 
darkness, over the old battlefield ; but a little more to the 
right, which line rested on the Richmond pike. The hill 
seized was somewhat higher than the one we occupied on 
the previous day, affording just a little better protection. 
When we relieved the regulars, the officers advised us to 
protect ourselves, as the reported casualties during the 
day was 130, from sharpshooters. Picks and shovels were 
brought out, and the vidette pits were dug in front of each 
Company formation, for two men each to occupy. These 
excavations or vidette pits were dug at the top edge of the 
hill, and during the day the men crawled in and out of 
them prostrate. They were relieved every two hours by 
the Reserves in the rear. These videttes were required to 
watch the enemy, and to protect our line from surprise. 
Vigilant activity was required all night long ; while vidette 
and picket firing was the prevailing rule. 

Just after midnight. Lieutenant George Hynicka, of 
Company "G," who was on the "look out," reported to 
Colonel Alleman (who was then in consultation with Ma- 
jor Rohrer and Lieutenant Wise, then acting adjutant,) 
that a man came to the edge of the hill, wearing a broad 
brimmed hat, stopped for a moment, about faced, and 



138 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

went away. This indicated that he was probably a spy, 
so an extra vigilance was ordered. Soon afterwards, a 
force of the enemy advanced on our immediate front, with 
the evident intention of feeling our strength; but they 
were met with repeated volleys from the whole line of the 
regiment ; repulsed and driven back in confusion. At this 
time, General Howard was on an inspection of the picket 
line; but when the firing commenced, he hurried back to 
headquarters with the probable intention of giving neces- 
sary orders ; fearing a general attack by the army of Gen- 
eral Lee. An investigation showed that a detail of the 
Confederates had been sent to feel our line, and ascertain 
whether we maintained our position, or whether we had 
retreated. They opened fire on us, but evidently got the 
worst of it, fell back, and we had comparative quiet the 
remainder of the morning. 

All possible precaution was taken to guard the front 
of the line, but daylight of the 15th revealed the alarming 
fact that the enemy had also been vigilant during the 
night. Newly made earthworks were seen on the right of 
Telegraph road, commanding a full sweep of the plain oc- 
cupied by our picket line. The nature of the earthworks 
could not be seen, and did not manifest itself until about 
the middle of the afternoon. The orders given Colonel 
Alleman were to hold the line, and require the regiment 
to remain prostrate. About three o'clock in the afternoon, 
smoke was seen belching from the enfilading battery con- 
cealed by these new earthworks. 

The field officers were on a gum blanket, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Alleman on the right, Major Rohrer on the left, 
with Acting Adjutant Wise between them — in the imme- 
diate rear of the center of the regiment, which was in line 
of battle two deep. A Shrapnell shell struck the ground 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 139 

about three yards from Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, 
bounding over the three officers, and striking the ground 
again just beyond them. Fortunately it did not explode; 
but a lot of dirt was thrown over the officers. All eyes 
were now turned to the right. There was another show of 
smoke, then another shell struck the ground, a few inches 
nearer from where the first shell struck, passing over the 
officers as before. Then the artillery got the range of the 
men, and raked the line from right to left. There was no 
shelter anywhere on the line except what was occupied 
by Company ''B ;" to remain there was certain death. 
Company "F'' moved along the Richmond pike for shel- 
ter, where there was a low stone wall ; but the shells or 
balls struck the stones, making their position untenable. 
There was absolutely no protection at all for eight com- 
panies of the regiment ; and in a dozen or more rounds, 
the enemy succeeded in getting the exact range of the 
line occupied by the 127th Regiment — being a gentle slope 
to the right, extending to the Telegraph Road — enabling 
the artillery to pick off every man upon it. Confederate 
sharpshooters were posted in a frame building on the Tele- 
graph Road, within easy range of our line ; so that when- 
ever a head was raised, it was almost sure to dearly pay for 
its temerity. To remain there seemed like unjustifiable des- 
peration ; and certain death would be the inevitable result, 
A hasty conference of the officers was held, and it was 
concluded that a retreat to the town was the only possible 
way of sparing the lives of the command. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Alleman reluctantly yielded to the unanimous 
voice of his associate officers, first, however, satisfying 
himself that the videttes were comparatively safe in their 
pits, and that the vidette cordon preserved the line of ad- 
vance pickets. The reserves then fell back, retreating to 



140 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the outskirts of the city. Captain Greenawalt marched 
his men up to General Howard's headquarters, and bold- 
ly told the General that he did not want his men slaugh- 
tered ; and after telling his story, General Howard said: 
"Why don't our artillery silence them?" 

The line was held by Company "B" and the videttes. 
The nature of the ground protected them, the company 
being safer there than to retreat over an open field. 

Just as the Major was wading through the mill-race he 
heard a shell coming, and stooped. The shell struck the 
bank and burst about fifteen feet from him, the pieces fall- 
ing all around. The balls were flying faster than a man 
could count. Just as the Major turned to enter a house, a 
Minie ball struck the shield of his cap, raising it. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman turned the command over 
to Major Rohrer, hastened to headquarters, and reported 
at once in person to Major-General Hooker, who was then 
in command in Fredericksburg. ' Colonel Alleman made 
his statement, to which General Hooker listened atten- 
tively, and after sharp and close inquiries. General Hook- 
er remarked, that while it was unfortunate that the picket 
line was impaired, he could see no possible cause, or the 
slightest excuse for censuring either the officers or the 
men of the regiment for retreating under such a murder- 
ous fire; unhesitatingly concluding that the retreat was 
not only justified, but that it was an absolute and impera- 
tive necessity, and that there could be no possible reflec- 
tion upon the courage and bravery of the officers and 
men of the regiment. He then ordered the Lieutenant- 
Colonel to visit the videttes, strengthen them, if neces- 
sary, and report their condition to him. Colonel Alleman, 
m full uniform, displaying his rank, at once returned to the 
broken line, going up the hill three-quarters of a mile in 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. I4I 

constant full view of the enemy, under a heavy fire from 
both sharpshooters and from the battery which hurled a 
number of shells at him. 

The following account of this venture is taken from the 
diary of Major Rohrer : "I was in command of the several 
companies which fell back, and kept them in position, 
ready for any emergency in the outskirts of Fredericks- 
burg, protected by the buildings. Lieutenant-Colonel H. 
C. Alleman did what few men would do, unless ordered 
to do so by his superior officer. He voluntarily said, 'I 
must go out on the picket line, and look after my vi- 
dettes.' General Hooker said, 'Wait until night,' but 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman said, 'No, I will go out now, 
and look after Company "B" and the videttes.' And I 
saw him march straight out over the battlefield to the 
picket line, and then to the left where Company "B" was. 
All this time the sharpshooters were firing at him, and 
shells were thrown, and the only thing that saved the life 
of the Lieutenant-Colonel was, that he was not tall, but 
slim, and the sharpshooters conld not hit him. He seemed 
to have a charmed life. He afterwards returned, as a tar- 
get again for the sharpshooters and shells that were fired 
at him." 

Colonel Alleman reached the line safely, and entered 
each of the several vidette pits, found them all properly 
manned; gave the necessary instructions; visited the re- 
serves, leaving instructions with them, and then returned 
to make his report in person to General Hooker, again un- 
der a galling fire, and was struck by a piece of exploding 
shell, on the right knee, which, in the hurry and excite- 
ment he did not mind at the time. He reported within 
two hours, to the expressed astonishment of General 
Hooker, who stated that he did not expect the order to be 



142 MEiMORIAL HISTORY 

executed until the dusk of the evening, and remarked that 
"it was a most daring act to go up and down that long hill, 
in broad sunshine;" and that his escape alive was "abso- 
lutely marvelous/' After complimenting him, he directed 
that the remnant of the regiment should be marched back 
to the outer line, under the cover of darkness, and re-oc- 
cupy the former position ; or else, acting upon his best 
judgment, form and hold a section of an advance line. 
The order was promptly executed, and Colonel Alleman, 
although limping from his slight wound, marched the reg- 
iment up the hill, and placed his men on the outer line in 
battle array, facing the enemy, which line was maintained 
until the regiment was relieved about ten o'clock that 
night, by the 53d Pennsylvania Regiment, commanded by 
Colonel John R. Brooke, our old brigade commander, who 
afterwards became the Senior Major-General of the 
United States Army. 

The regiment returned to camp as veterans, feeling 
however, that its heavy losses of both officers and men 
were unnecessary sacrifices, caused by apparent blunder- 
ing in high quarters ; and the great battle, with its tremen- 
dous list of casualties, was an unfortunate defeat, instead 
of a well earned victory. The gory field of Fredericks- 
burg proved to be a veritable slaughter pen. 

This was the bloodiest and most disheartening battle 
up to this period of the great war of the rebellion. The 
tremendous and unavailing slaughter, with its frightful 
loss of brave Union soldiers had the same depressing ef- 
fect upon the morale of the army, as it had upon the great 
loyal North. Although the Grand Army of the Potomac 
failed to accomplish a result which was confidently ex- 
pected, and richly deserved, in its heroic struggle with the 
veterans of the South, and the flower of Lee's great army, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 143 

both officers and men nobly maintained their reputation 
for bravery and heroism. 

Burnside was confronted by the ablest military tacti- 
cian of the Confederacy ; while Lee was aided by the most 
persistent fighters of the Southern army. 

The plan of battle was the Napoleonic idea and purpose 
of piercing the center, and the magnificent, but fruitless 
assault on the Heights of Fredericksburg was a signal 
demonstration of the courage of the Northern soldiers. 
The troops who charged again and again, in well pre- 
served lines of battle, in face of the awful and deadly fire 
from Marie's Heights on the 13th of December, 1862, 
were the equals in bravery and discipline of the soldiers 
of any age. Alexander's chosen Phalanx ! Caesars Tenth 
Legion! Napoleon's Old Guards! Wellington's House- 
hold Troops ! or the immortal Three Hundred at Balak- 
lava did not excel these Federal stalwarts in gallantry, 
steady persistency and unflinching courage. That Burn- 
side failed, was no fault of the noble citizen soldiers' 
whom he commanded. 

It appears from an examination of the accepted reports, 
that the 127th Regiment suffered as great, if not a greater 
loss than any other regiment in the engagement. There 
were 203 killed and wounded, and 54 additional wounded 
who did not report in either the hospital or to the adju- 
tant, making a total of casuahies 257, being nearly one in 
three of every officer and man of the regiment engaged 
in battle. 

The battle of Fredericksburg, Va., w^as fought Decem- 
ber 13-15, 1862. 



144 MEMORIAL HISTORY 





Oboanization. 


Killed 


Wounded Missing 


Total. 


2ad Army Corps Right Grand Division 


420 


3,270 


490 


4 180 


9th " 


" " " " 


111 


1,067 


152 


1,330 


3rd " 


" Centre " " 


145 


832 


202 


1,179 


5th " 


" " " " 


207 


1,669 


300 


2,176 


Ist " 


Left " 


347 


2,428 


561 


3,336 


6th " 


" " " " 


54 


332 


70 


456 




Total Losses 


1,284 


9,598 


1,775 


12,657 




Strength of the Union Army 


Strength 


Losses 


Per Cent. 


Right Grand Division 2nd Corps 


16,000 


5,180 




32>^ 


it 


9th 


18,000 


1,330 




7'A 


Centre 


3rd " 


16,000 


1,179 




8 


" 


5th " 


16,000 


2,176 




13>^ 


Left 


1st 


18,5(X) 


3,329 




18 


" 


6th 


19,000 


456 




2'A 




Cavalry 


9,500 
113,000 


7 
13 657 







Confederate forces engaged 78,513, killed 668, wounded 
4,116, missing 653. Total Confederate losses 5,377. Only 
about 20,000 Confederates were actively engaged. 

General Burnside has been sharply and severely crit- 
icised about the Fredericksburg campaign. If the theory 
is correct, that the original plan of battle was to flank the 
enemy, it was certainly a well planned battle; but if, on 
the contrary, it was his intention to carry the Heights by 
piercing the center, (and the result indicated a plan of 
that kind), then the sequence shows that he minimized 
both the force and the stronghold of the enemy, and reck- 
lessly consigned his army to slaughter and inglorious de- 
feat. In his defence it is claimed that his subordinate of- 
ficers either did not carry out his orders, or that they plead 
a misunderstanding of them, which is something in his 
favor; and it must also be taken into consideration, that 
he was in the enemy's county, with a deep river behind 
him, and whatever he lacked in both the plan and execu- 
tion of the battle, he is certainly entitled to the credit of 
a masterly retreat. 

By placing artillery on the left of the city in broad day- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I45 

light, in full view of the enemy, he made a bold show of a 
determination to renew the attack; and coupled with the 
fact that he poured a large body of fresh troops over the 
pontoons before dusk, was confirmation of his intention 
to renew the engagement. This, however, was only strat- 
egy, as those fresh troops were massed along the banks 
of the Rappahannock, and in the darkness of the night, 
after the pontoons had been well sanded, to prevent or 
deaden the sound of a tramping army, they were rushed 
back across the river on the upper pontoons, enabling the 
demoralized troops, whose ranks had been unmercifully 
thinned during the engagement, to retreat to the northern 
bank of the Rappahannock, under cover of night. This 
strategic movement was so cleverly carried out, that dur- 
ing the night of the 15th of December, 1862, the whole of 
the Burnside army escaped, and day light of the morning 
of the 1 6th found the city of Fredericksburg completely 
evacuated, and the pontoons floating down stream, with 
the remnant of the Army of the Potomac safe on the 
northern banks of the Rappahannock. 



CHAPTER V. 

Camps and Camp-Life. 




ITH all the attending hardships, privations and 
sufferings, there is a fascination about camp life 
which endears it to the memory of an old sol- 
dier, notwithstanding the monotony of regular 
routine duty, varied with picket duty, fatigue duty, patrol 
duty and special detail duty. There was something in the 
association of comrades, which makes pleasing the remin- 
iscences of home in camp, and they have all the attractions 
of beautiful oases in the desert of the term of enlistment. 

No difference how luxurious the life of a soldier may 
have been as a civilian, he soon toned down to the neces- 
sities of the situation, and became accustomed to the 
rough but substantial fare doled out to him by his Govern- 
ment; and his appetite was sharpened by daily drill, po- 
lice, guard and fatigue duty, with other requirements in 
his role as soldier, and intensified by the unctuous odors 
from the Dutch oven of the company cook, making him 
relish his "salt horse,'' his "hard tack,'' his bean soup, his 
"flap-jacks" and his sugared coffee, as much, relatively, as 
the epicure relishes his dainty bill of fare at Delmonico's, 
or the Waldorf-Astoria. 

The life of a soldier in camp was something of an indo- 
lent life, particularly when he got into the guard-house, 
or played "old soldier," or "hospital bummer." He was 
not required to do much, if any thinking for himself, as his 
officers were expected to do that for him. He was simply 
expected to act a good deal as an automaton; so that his 

146 




PRIVATE CYEUS RESSLEY LANTZ. 
Co. ■•E.-- 11:7th Krgiment, P. V 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. l4j^ 

brain was never burdened about "manoeuvres," "ad- 
vances," "retreats" and "strategy;" but he was simply 
expected to act when required, and to obey orders. 

The members of a company were as one family; while 
the other companies of the regiment were close and inti- 
mate neighbors of that family ; and while the greater inti- 
macy existed between the members of the company, yet 
there was a strong fraternal tie, and firm bond of union 
between each and every member of the regiment. 

Most, and probably all of the members of the "Dauphin 
County Regiment" saw their first service as servants of 
"Uncle Sam" in Camp Curtin. Here the men and line of- 
ficers were mustered into service, and here too, after the 
expiration of their terms of enlistment, they were mustered 
out of service and received their "honorable discharge." 
They strolled singly, or were marched into camp in 
squads, or as separate companies ; and while they were in- 
spired by patriotic feelings, and enthused by martial 
music, they soon learned, after passing the sentinels in 
Camp Curtin, that they were under restraint ; so the first 
thing they were required to learn was obedience to orders, 
and subjection to discipline. They found that they were 
unable to leave camp without a pass, and they were re- 
quired to be punctual, and respond with promptitude to 
the tap of the dnmi. The order of an officer was absolute 
law, required to be obeyed without question, or suiTer the 
penalty of disobedience, and the soldier soon learned that 
he was no longer permitted to exercise the pleasure of his 
own "sweet will," and, however restraining this seemed to 
be at first, he soon found that it was good policy to bow 
to the inevitable. 



148 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

CAMP CURTIN. 



Camp Ciirtin was his first and last camp. Here he un- 
derwent a physical examination ; it was here where he first 
slept in his blanket upon some meagre straw, or on the 
bare hard ground; it was here where he first learned to 
take a meal in a primitive fashion ; where he received his 
first training in the manual of arms; and where he be- 
came isolated from his friends, his family and his old as- 
sociates. It was a new and untried experience ; deprived 
at most times of newspapers and the current news of the 
world, he became dependent mainly upon the gossip of the 
camp for news. But he had plenty of time to think of the 
dear ones he had left behind him, and it was these 
thoughts which frequently produced "home sickness," and 
made him feel that "life was not worth living." How- 
ever, the association of one hundred men brought together 
as a company is recruited, necessarily developed many dif- 
ferent characters and dispositions, which eventually 
somewhat assimilated ; but those who were so happily con- 
stituted as good story tellers, soon became the popular fa- 
vorites of the company. 

Short as camp life was at Camp Curtin, there was a 
general feeling of expressed delight when the orders came 
to cook provisions 'and fill their haversacks with five days' 
cooked rations, "strike tents," which they seemed to know 
by intuition meant a change of base ; so there were no ex- 
pressed regrets at leaving Camp Curtin, which was named 
after the great war Governor of Pennsylvania. The gen- 
eral inquiry was, "Where are we going?" and the imagin- 
ation of each and every one was exercised tO' its fullest ex- 
tent ; but the great bulk of them guessed that they were 
going immediately to the front, and that it meant fight, 
for which each and all nerved themselves. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I49 

The railway ride from Harrisburg to Washington was 
a sort of a general picnic ; but when the march was made 
across the Long Bridge into Virginia, they began to feel 
that they were approaching the country of the enemy. 



CAMP WELLES. 



All of the subsequent camps of the regiment were of 
regimental formation, and the next camp located was in 
the line of fortifications back of Arlington, and was 
named "Camp Vv'elles," in honor of the Secretary of the 
Navy. It was here that the boys wrote home that they 
were expecting daily to meet the enemy, and they no doubt 
wrote brave words of what they would do, when the op- 
portunity would present itself, of meeting a "Gray Back" 
face to face. This was the first camp in the front, and 
here all sorts of rumors of expected battles were rife, so 
that the boys were kept on the qui vive, generally jump- 
ing to the conclusion that the next order would be a march 
to the battlefield. 

On the very first day that the regiment occupied this 
Camp, an order came from Major-General Whipple, at 
Arlington, requiring the Colonel and Lieutenant-Colonel 
to report at headquarters for orders; the result of which 
placed Colonel Jennings in command of a brigade, and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman in command of the regiment. 
In this camp, which was not particularly inviting, nearly 
the entire time of the men was occupied in squad and com- 
pany drills. Major-General Whipple visited Camp 
Welles and the surrounding camps, selecting regiments to 
join General McClellan in his march through Maryland, 
to intercept Lee, who was threatening an invasion of 
Maryland and Pennsylvania. While the selection of green 



150 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

troops was made, General Whipple was careful to retain 
some of the best material for the defences of Washington ; 
and among others he selected the 127th Pennsylvania 
Regiment, and assigned it to duty near Fort Ethan Allen ; 
in charge of Chain Bridge, and in emergency, to man the 
Fort — commanded by Colonel Doubleday, of Fort Sump- 
ter fame — in the Division of General Abercrombie, about 
six miles northwest of this camp. 

The few days' stay in Camp Welles, although the first 
in the life of the regiment near the front, made no partic- 
ular impress upon the men, because of its brevity and 
comparative quiet ; so that when the orders came to 
"strike tents," the boys felt that it was a relief, although 
they knew not where they were marching, and expected 
to go with McClellan to participate in the pending great 
battles, which culminated at Antietam and Short Moun- 
tain. 



CAMP BOAS. 



Colonel Jennings selected the knoll of a hill to the right 
of Fort Ethan Allen, immediately opposite division head- 
quarters, for the new camp, and named it "Camp Boas," 
in compliment to his patriotic uncle. Colonel F. K. Boas, 
of Harrisburg. He laid out the camp in one of the most 
uninviting places in that entire neighborhood, in close 
proximity to Chain Bridge ; and yet, after the camp was 
formed, the good judgment of the Colonel was developed, 
and it was made an exceedingly attractive place, and was, 
without exception, the most delightful camp of the 
regiment during its entire term of service. The 
grounds sloped in three directions, but mostly south, 
towards General Abercrombie's headquarters, only distant 



m 













ill* 



'^^^W^ 



"WJ- 



II. .spit M. SiirK.-nii. 1,1. c ,,1. 

127th Regiment, P. \'., on Dress Pjidc, i 

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Corps B: fe. T 



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?i|Je, Camp Boas, Va., September, 1862. 

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tors. 




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Fort M:iri-y in front. 






I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I5I 

about three hundred yards, and in full view. There was 
no camp in the near neighborhood of the Fort which was 
as attractive, or commanded the same general attention. 
The streets were laid out with mathematical precision; 
there was a grand parade ground, with a flag staff in the 
center. The eminence commanded a splendid view of the 
country for many miles around; it was a camp of natural 
drainage, beautified by the pride of the officers and men; 
and there was probably no camp during the entire term 
of service of the regiment which promised more pleasant 
associations, and stamped themselves so strongly upon the 
memory. As it was only six miles distant from Washing- 
ton, it was visited by friends of the officers and men of 
the regiment, and was honored among the rest, with a 
visit from the Secretary of War, who' felt a pride in the 
regiment from his own county, and who dined quietly 
with the Colonel and Lieutenant-Colonel. His son. Ma- 
jor Brua Cameron, U. S. Paymaster, visited the camp a 
number of times, and declared that he felt more at home 
in this camp than with any other regiment. 

The associations of the officers at the Fort, as well as 
division headquarters, made it exceedingly pleasant for 
the officers of the regiment, and here both officers and men 
lived in more luxurious style than in any of the other 
camps. This camp was visited by a great many ladies, as 
it always presented a clean, neat and attractive appear- 
ance, impressing itself favorably upon its many visitors. 
Considerable taste had been displayed in beautifying both 
headquarters and the quarters of the field officers, staff 
and line officers. It was a very high compliment to the 
regiment that it was selected from among upwards of one 
hundred new regiments, as the one best fitted for the care- 
ful and vigilant duty required in guarding an avenue into 



152 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Virginia, and in performing picket duty, with Stuart's 
Cavalry in the front. 

The requirements of the regiment while in Camp Boas 
were to guard Chain Bridge; man Fort Ethan Allen, 
(with its sixty-four-pounders) in emergencies, perfom» 
picket duty from Langley to the Potomac River ; dig rifle 
pits and entrenchments; devoting all possible time each 
day to squad, company, regimental and brigade drill. As 
the 127th Regiment was composed of intelligent men, and 
was well officered, during its stay in this camp it became, 
by its daily practice and strict discipline, a thoroughly 
well drilled regiment. Many of the officers and men saw 
service in the first call for troops ; others were proficient in 
company drill as home guards, and this experience, with 
the daily drill practice, produced satisfactory results. 
Both the Colonel and Lieutenant-Colonel were first lieu- 
tenants, and the captain of Company "A" was an adju- 
tant, the captain of Company "B" a second lieutenant, in 
the three months' service, while the captain of Company 
"K" was a conscript in the Confederate army. There was 
a school at headquarters for officers almost every night. 
With the instructions in the school and the regular daily 
practice in drill, the 127th Regiment was considered pro- 
ficient in company, battalion, regimental and brigade 
drill before it left this camp, and well fitted for active field 
service. 

The regimental parade was in full view of division 
headquarters, and the regiment was a favorite with Gen- 
eral Abercrombie. He frequently sat in front of his head- 
quarters watching the field officers take oiif dress parade. 
There were few regiments in the ser\ace of its size — nine 
hundred men of nine companies — that could compare with 
it. One day the colonel of the 127th New York Regiment, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1 53 

and Colonel Jennings met at General Abercrombie's head- 
quarters, when the question was put to Colonel Jennings, 
"In what time can you form dress parade?" Without 
hesitation, Colonel Jennings replied, "In two minutes." 
The Colonel of the 127th New York said, "I'll bet you a 
box of cigars that you can't do it." "All right," said 
Colonel Jennings, who, on his return to the regiment in- 
structed the captains of each company to be ready to 
double-quick punctually at the first tap of the drum. The 
regiment formed on Captain Henderson's color company, 
and when the adjutant called out "guides post," the time 
was found to be one minute and thirty seconds. This was 
a surprise to the New York Colonel, and the bet was won 
by thirty seconds, to the admiration of division headquar- 
ters, and the discomfiture of the New York Colonel. 

The regiment remained in Camp Boas upwards of two 
months, and every one connected with the regiment be- 
came very much attached to this camp. Photographs 
were taken, and plates made of this delightful camp, from 
which copies were made and liberally distributed, and 
these are now preserved as souvenirs of the war. 



CAMP JENNINGS. 



For a change, sanitary reasons, and probably with some 
expectation that the regiment would remain in winter 
quarters in the defences of Washington, a new locality 
was selected on Miner's Hill, about three miles south of 
Fort Ethan Allen, where the regiment marched on the 
17th of October, 1862. This camp was named by the ad- 
jutant in honor of the Colonel, "Camp Jennings." 

For some reason or other, this camp was very short 



154 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

lived ; and after a stay of only four days, it was concluded 
to form a new camp near Fort Ethan Allen. 

But little preparation was made for permanency, and 
there was nothing particularly attractive about this camp 
to stamp recollections of it upon the memory of those who 
occupied it. It was altog-ether probable that General Ab- 
ercrombie preferred having this regiment near his head- 
quarters, as he was fond of saying that he could always 
depend upon its officers and men. He had experience 
with other officers and other regiments, but they did not 
seem to come up to his expectations, and he openly ex- 
pressed a decided preference for the 127th Pennsylvania 
Regiment, which moved and encamped about a mile near- 
er Fort Ethan Allen. 



CAMP DAUPHIN. 



This camp was named by Colonel Jennings, "Camp 
Dauphin," in honor of the county home of the great ma- 
jority of the regiment. It was pleasantly located in a 
young peach orchard, on level, or slightly sloping ground, 
and was an ideal spot. Both officers and men got the im- 
pression that this would be a permanent camp for the win- 
ter, and they immediately fell to work to build spacious 
log cabins, and were on a fair way to make this a very 
comfortable and attractive, as well as a desirable camp. 

The Colonel and the Lieutenant-Colonel contented 
themselves in their wall tents, while the Major, the Adju- 
tant and the Quartermaster went to Washington and se- 
cured lumber with which they built commodious and rath- 
er pretentious winter quarters. When completed, and 
hearing these officers loudly boast of their "palatial" quar- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I55 

ters, the Lieutenant-Colonel paid them an inspection visit. 
After looking them over, both on the outside, and inside, 
he said, "Major you seem quite satisfied, and even proud 
of your quarters ; I will bet you a big apple that you have 
a better pig-sty at home for your porkers than this 
shanty.'^ The Major admitted the fact, and refused to take 
the bet, and yet he was happy with such shelter. 

It was here that the colors were officially presented to 
the regiment. 

The sudden and hasty departure of the regiment for the 
front, without State colors, while awkward, could not be 
avoided. Governor Curtin made it his duty to present 
officially each regiment with a superb silk flag, bearing the 
coat-of-arms of the Commonwealth. He was always 
happy in the brilliancy of those presentation speeches, 
v/hich were usually made before the regiment left the 
State, and mostly in camp. Even when regiments were 
ordered off before their colors were ready, he would fol- 
low them up and present them, in person, on the march, 
in camp, or on the field. 

By reason of the great pressure of official duties, he was 
unable to go to Virginia in October, when the stand of 
colors was ready, to present them to the 127th Regiment, 
so he sent Colonel Thomas, one of his aides, to represent 
him. Without notice, he appeared in Camp Dauphin on 
the 22nd of October, with the standard, taking the regi- 
ment, and particularly the field officers, by surprise. Many 
of the men were on picket, while a strong detachment was 
ofif on fatigue duty ; nevertheless those in camp were has- 
tily called together and formed in dress parade, and at 
II a. m. were formed in a hollow square, facing inward. 
Colonel Thomas was introduced by Colonel Jennings, and 
said in part : "I have a special message for you, from His 



156 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Excellency, the Governor of Pennsylvania, that he deeply 
regrets his inability to perform, in person, the ceremony 
of presenting to you the stand of colors provided by the 
Legislature; particularly so, as he feels much interest in 
the Dauphin county regiment, and would have been most 
happy to pay you an official visit, greet you and your offi- 
cers in person, in your pleasant camp, named after your 
native county. He delegated me to present to you in the 
name of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, those em- 
blems of both National and State authority, which he feels 
confident that you will safely guard, and honor them as 
worthily representing the Keystone State, in the group of 
States, in the rigid enforcement of law and order, and the 
supremacy of the Nation. 

"With the Governor's message and good will, and all 
good wishes to you, his expectations are for your success, 
with honor upon the battlefields. I present these im- 
maculate and beautiful colors to you, and in the name of 
the great State which you now represent, I bid you carry 
them, cling to them, guard them, march under them to 
battle with the enemy ; protect them, and never surrender 
them to the foes of your country, or permit them to be 
captured, or polluted by traitorous hands. They repre- 
sent your loyal and great home State ; and the govern- 
ment of the Nation. With full confidence in your loyalty, 
your patriotism, your gallantry and your honor as citizen 
soldiers. I confide these emblems of State sovereignty and 
National supremacy to your faithful keeping. Your dear 
old State will watch your movements with anxiety, your 
battle record with interest, and will rejoice with you; and 
if weep she must, she will weep in sympathy with you; 
but she confidently trusts to your power, and in your 
honor, in the fond hope that you will return with these 



I27TU REGIMENT, P. V. 157 

colors to your native State, crowned with the laurels of 
victory, and with martial glory." 

The band played the Star Spangled Banner, and the 
regiment gave three cheers for Governor Curtm, and 
three cheers for his representative. Colonel Thomas. 

The State flag is of dark blue silk, fringed with yellow 
silk The coat-of-arms of Pennsylvania is surrounded by 
thirty-four stars, and occupies the prominent center posi- 
tion On a red band, scrolled at each end in gilt letters 
are the words, -127th Regiment, Penna. Vols." This flag 
which cost $157-00, is of the best material, and of superb 

finish. -J uT • t. 

Colonel Jennings received the flag, and said, Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Alleman will speak for me, and for the regi- 
ment." , ^^^,^, , r. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman responded: "When we left 
Camp Curtin, we felt that there was something wanting; 
but we well knew that the great war Governor of Pennsyl- 
vania could be confidently relied on to make that some- 
thing good, and that too in good time. We left our peace- 
ful avocations and our happy homes, with the dear, dear 
ones we love so well, at the call of our country, in her 
peril and in her extremity, to assist in compelling the res- 
toration of those wrested States to their proper places m 
the bond of Union. We are here to do our duty and 
faithfully obey orders. We have voluntarily and cheer- 
fully offered ourselves as sacrifices upon the altar of our 
country; and if our blood is required to appease the tur- 
bulence of treason, we are both willing and ready to pour 
it out as a libation, that our country may profit by those 
sacrifices in a restored Union, with all of those rebellious 
sister States returned, regenerated, and in full communion 
with the loyal States of the North. 



158 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

"In the name of Colonel Jennings, I accept, for the regi- 
ment, this beautiful stand of colors, which represent the 
integrity of the Nation, and the sovereignty of our great 
Commonwealth. The azure banner with the escutcheon 
of the State of Pennsylvania emblazoned upon it, will be 
a constant reminder to us of the State motto which means 
so much, and guarantees the word of honor spoken by its 
first and greatest citizen. The other lovely and proud 
emblem of our nationality is typical of national power in 
the past; an assurance for the present, and a guarantee 
for the future. These alternating folds represent sacri- 
fice and purity, — are commemorative of the thirteen origi- 
nal colonies; emblematic of the struggle and the bond of 
unity; while the clustered galaxy of glittering stars sym- 
bolize the sovereign States, clothed with authority and ad- 
mitted into the Union, forming one compact whole, unit- 
ed, cemented and enshrined; one and inseparable! now 
and forever, as one great, free and independent Nation. 
All deference and all honor to the United States flag, 
which will be our mascot ! 

"Under these beautiful emblems of National honor and 
State sovereignty, we have buckled on our armor to com- 
pel the restoration to the Union of all the States, at any 
and every sacrifice. With these treasured flags floating over 
us, we will wield the sword, use the musket, and if nec- 
essary employ the bayonet in enforcing submission to the 
supremacy of the Government of the United States. 
These flying colors will be our constant reminder of our 
honor to our State, and our duty to the Nation. They 
will be our inspiration, our faith, and our baptism. Yes, 
we will guard, protect and defend them with our sacred 
honors, and with our lives. 

"Tell Governor Curtin that one and all of the members 



l27tH kEGIMENT, P. V. 159 

of the 'Dauphin County Regiment' will be true to their 
solemn oaths of allegiance, true to their honor as citizens 
of the State, and of the Nation, and that they are devoted 
to the faithful performance of their duty as soldiers in up- 
holding and maintaining the integrity of the Nation at all 
hazards, and regardless of consequences, and that they 
will not permit the proud escutcheon of the great Com- 
monwealth of Pennsylvania to be sullied, or tainted with 
dishonor. As Pennsylvanians we are justly proud of our 
State ; but as American citizens, and volunteer soldiers of 
the United States Army, we are prouder yet of our citi- 
zenship of the great Republic of free speech, free schools 
and free men, which a merciful and just God will not per- 
mit to be permanently disrupted, and perish from the face 
of the earth." 

The regiment gave three cheers for Colonel Alleman, 
and three times three cheers for the Union, and the band 
played "Yankee Doodle" and "America." 

After a few weeks, when the log cabins presented a 
cosy and homelike appearance, the order come on the 30th 
of November to move to the front, and the men commenc- 
ed growling and vowing that they would never make an- 
other attempt at trusted permanency ; for just when they 
were becoming comfortable, after hard labor in lugging 
logs and building their new homes, they were compelled 
to leave them amidst the cold blasts of winter, for im- 
promptu quarters, and go on a march to the north bank 
of the Rappahannock. 

The march through Maryland and into Virginia in a 
terrific snow storm, with the thermometer down to about 
zero, without wood to build fires, compelling both men 
and officers to bivouac, and march through the snow down 
to the Rappahannock, is one of the unpleasant memories of 



l6o MEMORIAL HISTORY 

our advance to the changing front. It was on this 
march that the coveted refuge of the field officers occupy- 
ing a deserted pig-pen for their quarters, and their deHght 
in having this miserable hut to shield them from the in- 
clement weather, is one of the varied memories treasured 
up. But through this terrible snow storm and intensely 
cold weather they reached the north bank of the Rappa- 
hannock opposite Fredericksburg, pretty well hardened in 
their early life as soldiers. 



CAMP ALLEMAN. 



The next camp was pitched in what was once a dense 
wood, but with all the trees cut for miles around, leaving 
nothing but thick undergrowth, and stumps about three 
and four feet high, in one of the most forbidding and des- 
olate regions of Virginia, with the village of Falmouth 
about a mile and a half to the south, in full view of the 
Rappahannock river, the city of Fredericksburg and the 
formidable Confederate camps on Marie's Heights. 

The new camp was laid out and christened by Adjutant 
Chayne, in honor of the lieutenant-colonel, "Camp Alle- 
man." Time, and the necessity of some voluntary impro- 
vised comfort, made this a noted camp ; and here the regi- 
ment lived longer than in any other camp during the en- 
tire term of service. The weather, for Virginia, was in- 
tensely cold, and in order to reach some degree of com- 
fort, the boys, while out on picket duty, discovered a south- 
ern Methodist church a few miles distant, which they ap- 
propriated because the congregation were secessionists, 
and the late pastor deserted it for a chaplaincy in the Con- 
federate Army. They tore it down brick by brick, carry- 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. l6l 

ing those bricks to camp and utilizing them for chimneys, 
which they built in or at the end of their tents ; and in lay- 
ing small pavements in front of their quarters to protect 
them from the Virginia mud of memorable sticking qual- 
ity. In those chimneys, which they speedily erected, com- 
modious fire-places were built, su that the tents became 
measurably comfortable, notwithstanding the frigid in- 
tensity of the weather during the winter of '62 and '63 
in old Virginia. From this camp the regiment marched 
to Fredericksburg and had their baptism of fire. On the 
retreat, the regiment returned to this camp and remained 
until the latter end of April, frequently under marching 
orders — notably, with "Burnside stuck in the mud" expe- 
ditions, performing picket duty, acting as scouts, and al- 
ways in readiness for the projected attack on Lee's army. 
Although the stay in Camp Alleman was somewhat pro- 
tracted, life in it was to a degree monotonous. The regi- 
ment finally broke camp on the 27th day of April, 1863, 
marched to Falmouth, in readiness to cross the Rappa- 
hannock to join Hooker in dislodging General Lee. 



CAMP ROHRER. 



On leaving the old camp, which was the extreme right 
of army encampments, the regiment bid farewell to Camp 
Alleman, although in expectation of returning after the 
pending battle. The regiment bivouacked in Falmouth and 
established a temporary camp, which was named after the 
Major, "Camp Rohrer." The initiation of this camp made 
an impression upon each and every officer and man of the 
regiment, for rank made no difference, as each and all 
were compelled to lie upon the hard ground the first night 



l62 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

without any shelter, and in the morning they found them- 
selves covered with several inches of new snow. Soldier- 
like, they made the best of the situation and got all of the 
enjoyment out of this camp that was possible. It only 
lasted five days, and from this camp, the regiment, on the 
third day of May, recrossed the Rappahannock, re-entered 
Fredericksburg, marched out to and over the old battle- 
field of Fredericksburg, on and over Marie's Heights, 
rendering efficient service in the great battle of Chancel- 
lorsville. 

The regiment returned to Fredericksburg, but were 
finally in turn driven out by the enemy, and under cover 
of a dense fog recrossed the pontoon to the north bank of 
the Rappahannock back to the Lacey House. Here the 
regiment formed a new camp, which was named "Camp 
J. Wesley Awl," in honor of the captain of Company "B." 



CAMP J. WESLEY AWL. 



Little or no effort was made for either beautifying this 
camp or making it even comfortable, as the term of ser- 
vice of the regiment had expired, and it was waiting or- 
ders from headquarters for either fighting duty or a re- 
turn home. The order for discharge came in about a 
week, and when the regiment broke camp, it was the last 
camp of the regiment of its own formation. The regi- 
ment marched gladly and joyously to Aquia Creek, sing- 
ing "Home, Sweet Home;" was transported up the Poto- 
mac, reached Washington, was officially received at York, 
and soon returned to Camp Curtin, where it was mustered 
out of service — perhaps a little prematurely, as the sequel 
proved. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 163 

The daring invasion of tlie State by Lee and his army 
made it the patriotic duty of those honorably discharged 
veterans to defend the integrity of their native common- 
wealth, and to utilize their well-trained experience in up- 
holding the honor of the general government. The three 
ex-field officers, as a committee, waited on Governor Cur- 
tin and tendered the united services of each and every sur- 
viving officer and man of the old 127th Regiment, to the 
State of Pennsylvania, to assist in repelling Lee's invas- 
ion. They not only tendered their services, but strongly 
urged upon the Governor the importance of its immediate 
acceptance, and further stipulated to recruit the decimated 
ranks with desirable volunteers without unnecessary de- 
lay. The Governor refused the offer, and doubtless 
greatly erred in judgment in doing so, for the old organi- 
zation, with its long, well-tried and successful experience, 
was worth a dozen of green regiments for immediate 
fighting. To the credit of those unselfish patriots let it be 
known, and not forgotten, that almost to a man they re- 
entered the military service in other organizations, or re- 
cruited new regiments, and did their duty as good soldiers 
and loyal patriots, in not only assisting their comrades-in- 
arms, already in the field, in driving out the invading 
hordes from the sacred soil of the Keystone State; but 
many of them re-entered the United States service and 
did valiant duty as soldiers till the end of the great Civil 
War. 



M 



CHAPTER VI. 

AJOR ROHRER was assigned to prepare a chap- 
ter on the part taken by the 127th Regiment in 
the celebrated engagement, historically desig- 
nated the ''Battle of Chancellorsville ;" and Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Alleman having prepared a general ac- 
count of that battle, the two sketches were found suscep- 
tible of consolidation. 



BATTLE OF CHANCELLORSVILLE. 



Two of the bloodiest battles of the middle period of the 
great Civil War were stubbornly fought at Fredericks- 
burg and Chancellorsville ; in both of which great battles 
the 127th Pennsylvania Regiment took a prominent part, 
and distinguished itself. 

The memorable battle of Chancellorsville was fought 
during the first three days of May, 1863. General Hooker 
commanded the Federal Army, numbering 130,000 
troops ; while General Lee reported the Confederate forces 
under his command at but 62,000, which were, since the 
great battle in December, entrenched behind Fredericks- 
burg. 

General Hooker's plan of battle was a bold, ofifensive 
movement across the Rappahannock, at two points, about 
ten miles apart, turning the flanks of the enemy, and 
crushing them between two fires. It was Napoleonic in 
conception, but in execution it turned out to be a sad and 
disastrous failure; if not a series of stupendous blunders, 

164 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 165 

caused by detached actions and cross-purposes, resulting, 
to some extent, from want of proper support by corps 
commanders, and culminating, at the critical hour, in the 
commander's disability, and practically leaving the arm5; 
without a head. 

General Hooker crossed the river at Kelly's Ford, with 
the right wing of the army, comprising the 5th, nth and 
1 2th Army Corps, commanded respectively by Generals 
Meade, Howard and Slocum, on the 29th of April, 1863 ; 
leaving General Couch with the ist and 3rd Divisions of 
the 2nd Army Corps to cover Bank's Ford ; while a bri- 
gade and battery of artillery were placed at United States 
Ford to facilitate the crossing. 

The left wing of the army, as originally planned, com- 
prising the 1st, 3rd and 6th corps, commanded respec- 
tively by Generals Reynolds, Sickles and Sedgwick, was 
ordered to cro'ss the river below Fredericksburg, and await 
results of the attack of the right wing of the army, and of 
orders from the General-in-chief. Afterwards, however, 
the 1st and 3rd Corps were withdrawn, and ordered to 
join the right wing of the army, leaving General Sedg- 
wick, with the 6th corps, supported by the 2nd Division 
of the 2nd Army Corps, to deal with the enemy in the 
vicinity of Fredericksburg. 

The 2nd Division of the 2nd Army Corps, com- 
manded by General Gibbon, was left at Falmouth, to 
make an independent crossing at Fredericksburg, upon 
an agreed signal to be given, and then join General Sedg- 
wick. 

Th 127th Regiment broke camp on the 27th of April, 
and with six days' cooked rations in their haversacks, and 
ninety rounds of ammunition, bivouacked at Falmouth, 
ready to march at a moment's notice. 



l66 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

During the night there was a snow storm, and on the 
following morning the regiment, including both officers 
and men, found themselves, on awakening, covered with 
a blanket of four inches of snow. The expected marching 
orders were not received, and on the prospect of remain- 
ing here awhile, a camp was formed, and in honor of the 
Major, was named "Camp Rohrer." 

On the morning of the 2nd of May, Lieutenant-Colonel 
Alleman. who was detailed as General Officer of th* 
picket line for the 2nd Division of the 2nd Army Corps : 
and Major Rohrer, who was detailed as commandant of 
the line, both reported to General Gibbon for instructions. 
The General particularly impressed upon them the im- 
portance of their detail, and the very great responsibility 
which he confided to their keeping. He then said, "The 
1st and 3rd Divisions of the 2nd Army Corps went 
to the right, and our line here is very weak, and Gen- 
eral Lee knows it ; so both of you will be held responsible 
if you allow yourselves to be surprised ; and if it would re- 
sult in the capture of our stores at Falmouth Station and 
Acquia Creek, you will be held liable, and will certainly 
be shot." He then instructed the General Officer to go 
over the line twice during the day, and at least once after 
midnight, and instructed the commandant to go over the 
line continuously both day and night. 

At Falmouth the river is comparatively shallow in 
some places in dry weather, being the head of tide water, 
and can sometimes be forded. The three brigades of the 
division were posted along the Rappahannock from the 
extreme left of the line, to the right, about six miles. 
Troops were passing to the right all day, and General 
Doubleday's division passed about noon. He had some 
new troops in his rear, and it being warm, they threw 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 167 

away their overcoats and blankets. As they had been sta- 
tioned about Washington, this was evidently their first 
march. The plain about the Lacey House was literally 
covered with thrown-away clothing and blankets. Old 
soldiers were too wise to do such a foolish thing, as ex- 
perience taught them to hold on to^ their belongings. 

The 1st and 3rd Divisions moved to Bank's Ford, about 
four miles above. Everything passed off well on the 
picket line. 

During the day strenuous efforts were made to throw 
a pontoon bridge across the river at Fredericksburg. The 
enemy was well fortified on the Heights, behind the city ; 
while sharpshooters were strongly entrenched along the 
southern bank of the river, and kept up an incessant fire 
upon our men, who were engaged in building the pontoon 
bridge. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman took observations from the 
top of the Lacey House, and communicated direct with 
General Hooker on the right, and General Sedgwick on 
the left. In the evening he reported the absence of many 
camp fires, surmising the evacuation of the main body of 
the Confederate camps, and the withdrawal of the bulk of 
the enemy. 

Later on, while riding along the picket line on the Rap- 
pahannock, he was overtaken by an aid-de-camp, with 
orders to report immediately to General Gibbon at division 
headquarters. On reporting, General Gibbon said, "I have 
sent for you. Colonel Alleman, to fill a very important gap. 
Two officers of rank in the construction of the pontoon 
bridge have been killed today, — you will be the third. 1 
want you to take immediate charge, and expect the bridge 
to be completed by daylight tomorrow morning." The re- 
sponsibility was great, and gloomy as the proposition was, 



l68 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

it was cheerfully received, and the Lieutenant-Colonel 
asked for detailed instructions, which were promptly 
given. He then requested a detail of three hundred men. 
"All right,"' said the General, "I will order a detail from 
the Philadelphia brigade." The Lieutenant-Colonel rode 
over to General Owen's headquarters, presented the order 
requiring 300 men for special duty. The General inquired 
the nature of the duty required. He then unhesitatingly 
said that he would gladly furnish the detail, when Colonel 
Alleman responded that he would prefer to have the men 
volunteer. The General then ordered out the brigade, and 
made a short, fervent speech to his men, introducing the 
Lieutenant-Colonel, who spoke briefly. "Boys, I want 300 
volunteers for a "Forlorn Hope"! I am a total abstainer 
myself; but I promise you as much whiskey as you can 
drink — or at least as much as is good for you !" His ap- 
parent sacrifice of moral principle seemed justified in a 
merciful effort to deaden the sense of danger, where there 
was no chance either to defend or retaliate. 

A previous detail had been made of three companies of 
the 127th Regiment,' namely Company "D," Captain 
Keene; Company "H," Captain Shott, and Company "K," 
Captain Nissley, to assist in putting down the pontoons. 

Most of the men at once stepped out of the ranks, and 
the 300 were soon chosen, while the rejected volunteers 
were loud in their expressions of disappointment. A requi- 
sition was made on the commissariat for two barrels of 
whiskey, and the men were marched to the Rappahan- 
nock and placed in three reliefs. On the arrival of the 
whiskey the barrels were placed one on each side of the 
first pontoon. Tlie Lieutenant-Colonel seizing an axe 
broke in the heads of the two barrels. The first relief was 
marched to the first pontoon, and ordered to fill their can- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1 69 

teens with whiskey. There was a strong rivalry for the 
first reHef ; while the order to fill canteens was obeyed 
with amusing alacrity. 

The bridge was completed by three o'clock in the morn- 
ing, although many of the men were fatally shot, some 
drowned, and many were wounded. The losses were 
great; but the order was executed, and the bridge com- 
pleted before daylight. The Lieutenant-Colonel reported 
his success to General Gibbon, and an order was issued 
for the entire 2nd Division of the 2nd Army Corps to im- 
mediately cross the river for active duty against the 
enemy. 

On reporting to General Gibbon, the successful pontoon 
bridge builder received his congratulations and thanks, 
and was at once tendered a position on his staff. This 
Colonel Alleman declined, preferring to rejoin his own 
regiment and participate with it in the pending battle. 
Without delay he reported to his own regiment, and by 
daylight the 127th Regiment was on the march, and before 
sunrise, they crossed the pontoon bridge, and again en- 
tered the familiar city of Fredericksburg. 

General Sedgwick, in reconnoitering, discovered a very 
considerable force of the enemy behind the breastworks, 
in the rear of Fredericksburg. It became necessary to 
dislodge them from their stronghold, which had been 
found impregnable at the battle of Fredericksburg. The 
enemy held a strong position at Marie's Heights, and for- 
tified themselves behind the deadly stone wall, which was 
so repeatedly assaulted without success, on the historic 
13th of December, 1862. 

General Sedgwick found it necessary to form a storm- 
ing party, which was divided into two columns, under the 
immediate command of General Newton. One column 
1 



170 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

passed out the Plank Road, while the other marched out 
the Telegraph Road. 

The 2nd Division of the 2nd Army Corps, com- 
manded by General Gibbon, in which the 127th Regiment 
held the extreme right, marched out through the west end 
of Fredericksburg, and up the slope, with the intention of 
flanking the enemy on the left. Out near the stone wall, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman was struck by the rebound of 
a cannon ball, falling from his horse. The beast, evidently 
frightened, ran up the hill, and made a distinctive mark, 
and was plainly visible from the opposite side of the 
river. 

Major Rohrer, on his return fiwm the right of the line, 
met Quartermaster Orth, and both rode to the pontoon 
bridge. The Major not having been relieved as command- 
ant, and seeing the troops charging up the slope of 
Marie's Heights, recognized the dui^ horse of the Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel. Quartermaster Orth said, "Look there! Colo- 
nel Alleman fell off his horse, and the horse is running 
away.'' Major Rohrer then said, 'T am not relieved from 
picket duty ; but you take my horse and I will join the 
regiment." He hurriedly crossed the pontoon bridge on 
foot, hastened to the right, near the river until opposite 
the 127th Regiment, then hurried straight up to his place 
and post in battle line. The cannon balls from the cele- 
brated Washington Battery, of New Orleans, flew thick, 
bouncing like gum balls all over the field. In front there 
was a stone wall ; and from the slope up to the summit, 
two rifle pits, one above the other, well manned, on the 
summit or heights above, the artillery operated vigorously. 
A skirmish line was formed in charge of Lieutenant Knis- 
ley, of Company "H," which advanced in splendid forma- 
tion. In a short time Lieutenant Knisley was shot in the 



12/Jll REGIMENT, P. V. I7I 

groin, and fell fatally wounded ; but while lying on the 
ground he bravely waved his sword, urging his men on, 
regardless of his death wound and inability to further lead 
them. 

When General Lee withdrew to confront General 
Hooker on his left at Chancellorsville, he left Early's Di- 
vision and Barkesdale's Brigade, comprising a force of 
about 10,000 men to hold Fredericksburg and Marie's 
Heights. This force, with the protection of the strong 
works, and supported by what was considered an abun- 
dance of artillery, was deemed sufficient to resist any at- 
tack which would likely be made by the remaining Union 
forces left by General Hooker. 

The assaulting columns made repeated assaults, and 
finally, about 1 1 o'clock in the morning, succeeded in scal- 
ing the stone wall and driving the enemy in confusion be- 
fore them. The advantage was followed up, and the regi- 
ment with the vim of well-disciplined veterans, behaved 
splendidly. 

The regiment manoeuvred as a feint, and about noon 
the 127th Regiment moved by the right flank up the 
river as if to turn the Confederate left. Their artillery on 
the hill limbered up and moved to our right to head us ofif. 
When they had unlimbered, and were ready for work, 
our regiment about-faced, and marched back to its old 
position. Then the enemy's artillery again limbered up 
and galloped at full speed to resume their former position, 
and about the time they were ready for hot service, the 
127th Regiment again moved to the right, when the Con- 
federate artillery again galloped back to our right. 
This manoeuvring of ours was done repeatedly to keep 
the enemy from working their guns on the 6th Corps, who 
were forcing their way in the rear of the enemy. 



172 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Two sections of a Rhode Island battery had taken posi- 
tion on the left of Company "B" of our regiment; and up 
in front, some distance along the slope of the hill, near 
the Plank Road, they worked to great disadvantage, one 
wheel of the gun carriage being about one foot higher 
than the other wheel, apparently hanging on the side of 
the hill, firing on the flank of the enemy's artillery, and 
doing good work. Some of the enemy's guns were dis- 
abled, while the loss of the Rhode Island artillery, at this 
point, was eleven men and seventeen horses killed. 

Again the T27th Regiment moved up, and took posses- 
sion of the heights. The battery of six pieces also moved 
up, and took position at right angles on our left and front, 
and entertained the enemy's battery in their front and on 
our right flank until a number of the enemy's guns were 
disabled, while the others were withdrawn from that por- 
tion of the field. 

Major-General Sedgwick had crossed the river with his 
forces on the ist and 2nd of May, below the city, at 
Deep Run or Belle Plain. His corps numbered about 23,- 
000 men at that time. Their skirmish line had been ac- 
tive for two days, and moved up to the city, operating in 
the rear and flank of the enemy, with the intention of 
compelling them to evacuate, and to enable General Sedg- 
wick's command to join Hooker at Chancellorsville. 

Sunday, the 3rd of May. was the culmination of the 
operation on the right by General Hooker, and on the left 
by General Sedgwick. The distance between the two ex- 
tremes of our line was upwards of ten miles. Sedgwick 
moved up to the city and out the Plank Road leading to 
Spottsylvania Court House, to meet General Hooker at 
Chancellorsville, and as soon as General Sedgwick's com- 
mand had fought its way over Marie's Heights and fol- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1 73 

lowed the enemy on the run. General Sedgwick consider- 
ed it prudent to send back a force and hold Fredericks- 
burg at all hazards ; so Colonel Hall, commanding the 
3rd Brigade, — of which the 127th Regiment was a part, 
— was ordered back in the afternoon to hold that city, pro- 
tect the pontoon bridge, and keep open the line of commu- 
nication to Acquia Creek, as well as the Plank Road to the 
summit of the ridge. The 127th Regiment then filed to 
the right on the heights, and formed into battle-line in a 
wheat field, parallel with the river. The ground was well 
covered with conical shells, thrown there by our artillery 
on the 13th and 15th of December, 1862. Our artillery 
formed at right angles to our left of line. Cannonading 
was lively from both sides. The Confederates took posi- 
tion some distance to the right and front of our line, and 
the manoeuvreing was interesting for a time; but when 
their shells came closer, bouncing over our line and 
among us, it became sort of monotonous. The enemy 
finally withdrew. We were under fire from 6 a. m. to 
2 P. M., and about 3 p. m. the 127th Regiment, in obedi- 
ence to orders, marched back to Fredericksburg to do 
vigilant patrol duty. 

The 6th Corps with General SedgAvick marched out 
of sight, and later in the day became hotly engaged with 
Stonewall Jackson's old troops, re-enforced by Lee's 
army ; and as a consequence, from lack of support, Sedg- 
wick was beaten back to Bank's Ford, where he moved 
for re-enforcements. 

While General Sedgwick, holding the left, fought his 
army splendidly, and succeeded most admirably, he was 
not properly supported, as he had a right to expect, by 
the army of General Hooker on the right. Instead of 
Hooker advancing his army toward Fredericksburg, and 



174 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

crushing his enemy between two fires, he returned to his 
old position at Chancellorsville ; and Sunday, the 3rd of 
May, while promising a glorious victory at Fredericks- 
burg, became an ignoble defeat at Chancellorsville. Gen- 
eral Sedgwick met with a heavy loss, 5,000 of his army 
were taken prisoners by the enemy. The battle of Chan- 
cellorsville, (on our right), so well planned by General 
Hooker, and stubbornly fought, was lost earlier in the day. 
Then Lee could spare his forces to fall on Sedgwick and 
crush him. If Sedgwick's force could have reached 
Hooker, or if Hooker had gone to the relief of Sedgwick, 
the result might have been reversed. Stonewall Jackson 
was killed in this battle, and reports differ as to how he 
lost his life. 

When Sedgwick's command went to the right, our 2nd 
Division of the 2nd Amiy Corps became the extreme left 
of the line — which was a very important and responsible 
position to hold. 

Colonel Hall held Fredericksburg, notwithstanding the 
attacks which were made upon his forces by invading par- 
ties on the three sides of the city, requiring the whole of 
his command to be on constant picket, skirmish and ac- 
tive duty, as his pickets were constantly fired upon by the 
enemy attempting to force their way into the city. Colo- 
nel Jennings was in charge of the main body of the regi- 
ment, in the cemetery, while Major Rohrer had command 
of the pickets at the railway and eastern section of the 
city. 

The 127th Regiment quartered in the streets of Freder- 
icksburg, the officers taking possession of a vacant house. 
About ten o'clock on Sunday night an order came, "Colo- 
nel Jennings, you take your regiment to the left and sup- 
port the 20th Massachusetts Regiment.'' Lieutenant-Colo- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 1/5 

nel Alleman suffering and incapaciated from his woiuid 
was unable to join us, so Colonel Jennings said, "Major, 
you know who goes." We marched to the left, below the 
city, and supported the 20th Massachusetts Regiment, 
with Company "H," Captain Shott ; Company "C," Cap- 
tain Henderson, and Company "D," Captain Keene. 
Company "B," commanded by Lieutenant A. J. Fager, 
guarded the corral to the rear of us. At early dawn, on 
May 4th, Colonel Jennings said, "Major, I am going for 
my breakfast, if any one comes, say I went to see Com- 
pany "B" at the corral." A little later on a faint voice was 
heard in the distance, "Bring over that regiment," and a 
man was seen approaching on a double quick, and beck- 
oning urgently with his hand, repeating, "Bring over your 
regiment, the Rebs are coming back." Just then Colonel 
Jennings returned, and an orderly rode up with an order 
to bring half of his regiment to the right, and use the 
other half to- man the rifle pits on the other side of the 
creek, close by the railroad. Colonel Jennings then said, 
"Major Rohrer, you take Company "B" and Company 
"I" across the creek and man the rifle pits." The Colonel 
marched his four companies to the right, near Mrs. 
Washington's tomb. Major Rohrer's command crossed 
the creek and the railroad, there being an excavation of 
about twelve feet, the table land being so much higher 
than the railroad. At the edge, facing west, there was a 
basin about thirty feet deep, and flat surface, to Marie's 
Heights. It was about two hundred yards wide, and 
seemed to have been the bed of a lake or river, with a lit- 
tle creek, as an outlet to the river below. Captain Awl had 
been detailed as provost marshal, and was in the perform- 
ance of his duty at Fredericksburg, so that Company "B" 
was in command of Lieutenant Fager, and his company 



176 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

occupied the right of the pit, and Company "I," Captain 
Nissley, the left of the pit. The rifle pits were dug by the 
Confederates to protect themselves against us; yet there 
was enough earth thrown up to protect our heads. The 
pickets that supported the 20th Massachusetts joined our 
left at right angles to the river. A fine strip of oak wood 
was in their front, while the Confederate cavalry occupied 
the wood further south. Our picket line consisted of 
five companies of the 127th Regiment. The Confederates 
were filling up the rifle pits across the way on Marie's 
Heights. An officer, riding a white horse, entered the 
trench at the south end, and the men followed in single 
file into the pits, filling them. On the top of the ridge 
some half dozen officers, mounted, were taking a survey 
of the situation. The enemy sent out a skirmish line 
from the first rifle pit, which advanced to the outer edge 
of the Richmond pike, when Companies "B" and "l" 
opened a livelv fire upon them. The enemy retired to the 
rifle pits in quick order, remaining there the balance ot the 
day. Their dead were left upon the field all day in the 
hot sun, as they evidently did not care to risk their lives 
for their recovery. Their wounded crawled back of the 
stone wall for protection. The officers on the hill could 
not stand our Minie balls, so they, in great haste, gal- 
loped to the rear. 

While Monday, the 4th of May, was a sort of watch 
day for both armies, General Hooker on the right, had. de- 
termined to recross the river to the north bank, and so 
notified General Sedgwick, ordering his retreat ; but Mon- 
day was a day of watchful vigilance on the extreme left, 
in the endeavor to hold Fredericksburg. 

Sully's brigade was on the extreme right of our divis- 
ion line, on top of Marie's Heights, near where we were 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 177 

engaged the day before. Opposite to us, and to the left, 
the hill sloped south gradually, the hill farther south slop- 
ing north, making a broad ravine. In this ravine the 
Confederate infantry were stationed for hours, and about 
5 o'clock the enemy marched up the ravine to the top of 
the hill, making a wheel to the right, and cheering in their 
peculiar way. Here they met the 15th Massachusetts Reg- 
iment of Sully's Brigade, resulting in a beautiful face to 
face fight. The two lines fired and loaded ; but at last the 
reinforcements of the enemy outnumbering the 15th 
Massachusetts, they prudently fell back in beautiful order. 
The Massachusetts Regiment fired and fell back of the 
rear line; the second line fired and fell back of the first 
line, a short distance, reloading on the way back ; then the 
first line fired again, and so alternated. It was a fine sight, 
one line firing and falling back, and then the other line 
repeating the same tactics, which was the masterly way 
of covering a retreat. 

In front, and immediately below us, a company of Con- 
federates were lying in ambush among the undergrowth 
of brush all day, without our knowing it. Corporal Mil- 
ler, of Company "B," went out on a reconnoitering expe- 
dition. On the right of Company "B" was a narrow path 
leading down the side of the hill, which Miller followed ; 
and on reaching the bottom, he was shot and instantly 
killed by a captain of the hiding company. This was evi- 
dently done for self-protection, for had Miller been per- 
mitted to return and report the presence of the enemy, a 
fight would have been the inevitable result. On our right 
flank, beyond the creek, the 42nd New York Regiment of 
our brigade was on picket duty along the bank of the rail- 
road, while the remainder of the brigade was nearer to 
town. Colonel Mallon, of the 42nd New York, was 



1/8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

officer of the day. At dark the picket lines were drawn 
to the edge of the city, forming a continuous picket line 
from the railroad to the Rappahannock River. Major 
Rohrer s two companies were formed, Company "B" on 
the right of the country road, joining the picket line on 
the right, and Company "I" on the other side of the road, 
towards the river. From our left, on the other side of a 
swamp, the 20th Massachusetts Regiment completed the 
line to the river. 

Sometime during the night both officers and men, tired 
and drowsy, some one on our right, said to be the "officer 
of the day," fired a revolver. One of the boys in his ex- 
cited confusion ran to Colonel Jennings and reported that 
the major and his two companies were captured. This 
was about three o'clock in the morning. Colonel Jen- 
nings immediately sent Company "B," Captain Greena- 
walt, and Company "G," Captain Ball, to fill the reported 
gap. These two companies reported to the major at his 
post, who utilized them by forming them into a reserve 
line. 

At early dawn, on the fifth of Alay, 1863 an Aide of the 
Commanding Officer delivered an order to ]\lajor Rorer, 
instructing him to go to the 20th Massachusetts Regi- 
ment, take charge, bring them in and rush them across the 
pontoon bridge as quietly as possible, while the Aide took 
charge of the four companies of the 127th Regiment and 
guided them to the bridge where they were met by Col- 
onel Jennings and Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman. The rest 
of our regiment had already crossed with the division, the 
w'hole army having retreated during the night. ]\Iajor 
Rohrer, in charge, by order of the 20th Massachusetts 
Regiment, crossed the pontoon bridge and reported at the 
Lacey House. The 20th Massachusetts went their way. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I79 

Major Rohrer reported to Colonel Jennings. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Alleman said, "Major are you sick? You look so 
pale." Major said, "No, but I am exhausted." The 
Major went to the rear, and after taking strong coffee and 
hard tack felt much stronger. 

The pontoon bridge drifted to the left bank of the river 
without a mishap, or the loss of a man in all this move- 
ment. A heavy fog was in our favor. The enemy pur- 
suing, and a river at your back, is a serious position for 
an army. Such was our position on December 15th, 
1862, and on May 5th, 1863. In both instances the retreat 
and crossing were well managed, and with great success. 
Continuously, both day and night, from May 2nd to the 
5th, the regiment was on picket, on the skirmish line or in 
battle, with almost no rest, sleep or nourishment, reaching 
the limit of human endurance. 



CHAPTER VII. 

Officers. 

FIELD OFFICERS. 



Colonel William W. Jennings was only twenty-four 
years of age when he was authorized to raise a regiment. 
His youth was strongly urged against his appointment; 
but he proved himself old enough to handle, not only a 
regiment, but a brigade, with credit to himself, and re- 
nown to his command. He had a clear head, displayed 
excellent judgment, was serene, watchful and undisturb- 
ed under fire, and marched his men on a gallant charge, 
with shot and shell hurled at them thick and fast, as 
calmly as on dress parade. He was courageous, without 
being rash; and always handled his command with 
marked ability, securing their full confidence, and ac- 
quired the confidence of those higher in rank. He was a 
good disciplinarian, and an intelligent instructor, always 
presiding at the officers' school, demonstrating the com- 
pany and regimental moves by blocks; and answered 
questions intelligently without the slightest hesitation- 
elucidating his propositions with both ease and perspi- 
cuity. There was none of the martinet about him, and yet 
he always commanded respect. He was always cour- 
teous to his associate officers, kind and considerate to his 
subordinates, and was devoted to the regiment, which he 
made a part and parcel of himself. He was in turn be- 
loved by his regiment, and each and every man was as 
proud of his colonel, as Colonel Jennings was proud of 
the 127th Regiment. He was exemplary in conduct, ap- 

180 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. l8l 

proachable, and no man could truthfully complain of any 
wilful oversight or neglect on his part. He grew each day 
in the respect and affection of his command, and no offi- 
cer was more popular than he on the muster-out of the 
regiment. 

He re-entered the service as Colonel of the 26th P. V. 
M. Regiment. 

Lieutenant-Colonel H. C. AUeman was the administra- 
tive officer of the regiment, was an able assistant to Col- 
onel Jennings, and while in command of the regiment, 
proved himself a strict disciplinarian, but coupled always 
with considerate kindness. When he issued an order, or 
gave a command, he was rigid in its enforcement. He 
was always courteous, but never lost sight of the dignity 
of his position, and always aimed high, both for himself 
and his command. While he was delicate in physique, he 
hardened himself to the trials oi camp life, the exposures 
of picket duty, and was always considerate in the care of 
his men. He was so thoroughly abstemious, that he never 
permitted whiskey rations to be issued to the regiment; 
and on one occasion, when he was peremptorily ordered in 
arrest by General John R. Brooke for his refusal to draw 
whiskey rations, he surrendered his sword, rather than 
violate his moral principle. He told General Brooke that 
he was responsible for the discipline and conduct of his 
men, and felt that they would be ungovernable under the 
influence of liquor, and wanted to avoid even the tempta- 
tion. He said he was willing to surrender his sword, but 
not his moral conviction, and never his honor! General 
Brooke generously returned his sword, and promptly can- 
celed the whiskey ration order. He remained with his 
command, and never applied for leave of absence during 
his term of service. His popularity was evidenced by a 



l82 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

magnificent sword, presented to him at Camp Curtin on 
the return of the regiment. 

He re-entered the service as Colonel of the 36th Regi- 
ment, P. V. E., and was the Military Governor of the Get- 
tysburg battlefield. c. r. lantz. 

Major Jeremiah Rohrer was the ideal Major. Under- 
standing his duties, he performed them with superior in- 
telligence, and always with good grace. He was a picture 
for a painter on horseback. He was a commanding figure 
on foot, but appeared to the greatest advantage mounted. 
He was a good judge of horse flesh, and would only be 
satisfied with the very best in the market. There was a 
dignity in his manner, and a consciousness of power, 
which made him self-reliant. This feature was so well 
understood at headquarters, that when he was selected for 
any special work, the details were left entirely to his 
judgment, and he never failed to meet the full expecta- 
tions of his superior officers. Whatever he did, was well 
and gracefully done. He could dignify the most objec- 
tionable work ; and the men obeyed his commands, feeling 
that they were dignifying themselves in its performance. 
While he sometimes assumed a stern look, he had a big 
and kind heart, which was always throbbing in unison 
with his command. He was popular in the regiment, and 
his two assistant field officers had not only full confi- 
dence in him, but they had the highest admiration for his 
manliness, his willingness, and the admirable manner in 
which he always performed his duties. He was brave in 
action ; and at the battle of Chancellorsville, he volun- 
tarily abandoned his detail when he saw Lieutenant-Col- 
onel Alleman shot from his horse, and hastened to the reg- 
iment, rendering gallant service during that memorable 
battle. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 183 

STAFF OFFICERS. 



Adjutant Augustus L, Chayne was promoted from 
Company "D," was its first orderly sergeant, and pro- 
moted to second lieutenant, and afterwards, when a vacan- 
cy in the captaincy occurred, he was tendered that posi- 
tion; but he wisely declined, preferring to retain the post 
of adjutant, for which he was admirably suited, and con- 
ducted its multitudinous afifairs with marked ability and 
good judgment. He was prompt, methodical and of even 
temperament ; and had the happy faculty of expressing 
firmness in an easy manner. He was genial, companion- 
able, never in a hurry, yet always on time. He was slightly 
wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, and behaved gal- 
lantly in both of the great battles in which the regiment 
was engaged. 

Lieutenant Frederick R. Gilbert made a creditable rec- 
ord for the short time that he filled the post of quarter- 
master. His mercantile training and methodical business 
habits enabled him to quickly grasp the requirements, and 
he was equal to the occasion. The profits of a sutler were 
alluring, and he exchanged the complex duties of quarter- 
master, for the prospective gains of the sutlership; but 
when the regiment moved to the front, he concluded that 
the hazardous risk would not sufficiently compensate him 
in life and property, so he voluntarily retired from the ser- 
vice. 

Lieutenant John F. Orth found the duties of quarter- 
master much more congenial to him than the red tape de- 
tails of the adjutant's ofiice, and soon settled into his new 
duties with a feeling of mastership of the situation. Dur- 
ing the service, he was aided by experienced assistants, 
enabling him to get along without difficulty ; but on mak- 



184 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ing his final reports, there was an tindiscoverable error of 
a few cents, which got him into a long and irritating con- 
flict with the War Department, and at the personal cost 
to him of nearly his entire salar\-. He made a good officer, 
and went to much trouble to gratify, as much as possible, 
the unreasonable importunities of persons in the regiment 
whom it seemed almost impossible to satisfy. 

Dr. Tames R. Riley was commissioned surgeon of the 
regiment, and reported early in September. He managed 
to get into altercations with his superior ofl&cers. and was 
soon placed and kept in arrest. Finding his career of 
usefulness in the regiment ended, he managed to have 
himself transferred to another regiment, to the \ery great 
relief of the field officers. 

Dr. E. H. Homer joined the regiment on its organi- 
zation as assistant surgeon, and when the longed-for va- 
cancy of surgeon was made, he was promptly appointed. 
He was ver\- quiet in his manner, attended faithfully to 
his duties, and exhibited professional ability and tender 
care, which endeared him to his fellow comrades. He re- 
entered the sen-ice as the surgeon of the 26th P. \ . M., 
under Colonel Jeimings. 

Dr. Jacob H. \'astine was mustered into the service and 
joined the regiment at Camp Boas early in September. 
His easy manners, pleasant ways and skill as a surgeon, 
made him quite popular, and but for the fact of his ab- 
sence on leave, when the vacancy of surgeon took place. 
he doubtless would have been promoted. He was the last 
person in the regiment to be mustered out of the service. 

Chaplain John C. Gregg, like the surgeon and assistant 
surgeons, was assigned to the regiment -wnthout any voice 
from the officers. He had his good qualities ; but his good 
nature subjected him to many impositions. He was earn- 



I2/TH REGIMENT, P. V. 185 

est, patriotic and anxious to discharge his ftill duties. He 
was very proud of his position, and like most of his cloth, 
was not troubled with modesty in seeking his own per- 
sonal comfort. He took very kindly to the performance 
of additional duties which were assigned him. He was 
unfortunate in boasting of his courage, which was severe- 
ly tested at the battle of Fredericksburg : but he fully re- 
deemed himself at the battle of Chancellorsville, and se- 
cured respect for his subsequent braver}- and usefulness. 



NON=CO.MMISSIONED STAFF. 



Sergeant-^Iajor Charles H. Small was promoted from 
the rank of Company "F,*' and was wounded at the bat- 
tle of Fredericksburg, incapacitating him for duty, during 
most of his remaining term of service. 

Clement B. Care was promoted from the ranks of Com- 
pany ■"B,*' to commissary-sergeant of tne regiment. He 
was industrious, careful and devoted to the duties of the 
commissariat. His position was at all times ver}- tr%-ing; 
as he had a good many grumblers to satisfy; but he exer- 
cised good judgment, and with his even temperament and 
Christian character, he made a splendid record as a faith- 
ful, honest and trusted commissary-. He re-entered the 
ser\-ice as captain of a company in Colonel Alleman's reg- 
iment. 

David Campbell, of Company "H,"' was promoted to 
quartermaster-sergeant, and gave unmistakable evidence 
that he felt the honor of preferment. He asserted himself, 
and made a good assistant to the quartermaster. 

Washington Porter Oglesby was promoted from the 
ranks of Company "B,"' and made hospital-steward of the 



l86 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

regiment. He was intelligent, applied himself assiduously 
to his hospital duties, and made a most excellent officer — 
popular alike with the patients in the hospital, as well as 
with his medical superiors. He was warmly commended 
for the intelligent and assiduous manner in which he per- 
formed his official duties. 



OFFICERS OF COMPANY "A." 



While Company "A" was officially of, it was never with, 
the regiment. Its reputation was made entirely upon its 
independent record. 

Captain F. Asbury Awl, of Company "A," entered the 
service as a college graduate, with military training. 

He was adjutant of Colonel Richard Coulter's regiment 
in the three months' service. His ability as an accom- 
plished officer enabled him to re-enter the service as 
colonel of the 201st Regiment, P. V. 

Lieutenant John S. Bitzer, served during his term as 
first lieutenant of Company "A," and after muster-out, 
re-entered the service again as a lieutenant. 

Lieutenant John S. Ensminger made a good record, 
and when his company was mustered out, he found no dif- 
ficulty in raising a company, and he re-entered the service 
as captain of Colonel Awl's 201st Regiment, P. V. 



OFFICERS OF COMPANY "B." 



Captain J. Wesley Awl, of Company "B," was one of 
the most accomplished officers of the regiment, and a 
Christian gentleman. He was able, active and a thorough 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 187 

disciplinarian. He exercised tact, good judgment, and 
was a very superior officer. His company idolized him, 
and he was immensely proud of his men, who belonged to 
good families and made a good record for themselves. He 
was amiable, but firm, dignified, without being haughty, 
and conscious of his power, relied upon himself. The 
field officers had implicit confidence in him, and he proved 
himself eminently worthy of their highest esteem. 

Lieutenant Albert J. Fager, of Company "B," had mili- 
tary training, and experience as a military instructor. He 
always showed a pride in his men, and in his position. He 
was ever ready, and obeyed an order with alacrity and 
with intelligence. Both his Captain and his men placed 
every confidence in him. He was courageous, manly and 
proved himself an excellent officer. 

Lieutenant William McCarroll, of Company "B," was 
quiet, unobtrusive, but a faithful and efficient officer. He 
had seen active service in the Regular Army, fought the 
Indians, and was every inch a soldier. 



OFFICERS OF COMPANY "C." 



Dr. James Henderson, Captain of Company "C," was an 
intelligent, brave and excellent officer. He guarded the 
health of his men with professional care, and was very de- 
servedly popular with his men. He was always ready for 
any emergency, energetic and efficient in the discharge of 
his official duties. He guarded the colors of the regiment 
with the pride of a true patriot, and returned them unsul- 
lied, although tattered and torn by missiles of treason. 
His faithfulness and efficiency were properly appreciated 
at headquarters. 



l88 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Lieutenant William R. Orth, of Company "C," was a 
collegian, a close student, and a painstaking officer. He 
gloried in the performance of his official duties, and per- 
formed them admirably. He was dauntless and patriotic, 
and was mortally wounded at the battle of Fredericks- 
burg. He cheered his men, and bid them leave him to his 
fate. He met death like a hero, without a groan, lamented 
not only by his company, but by the whole regiment 

Lieutenant Charles D. Wise, of Company "C," was reg- 
ularly promoted for merit. He was fearless, active and 
zealous, and discharged his regular or assigned duties 
well and faithfully. He was genial, but unflinching in 
strict performance of his allotted work. His men admired 
him, and he had the profound respect of his superior of- 
ficers for his bravery, and the energetic manner in which 
he performed his every duty. After his term of service 
he readily raised, and was Captain of a company in the 
36th Regiment, commanded by Colonel H. C. Alleman. 

Lieutenant David Hummel, Jr., of Company "C," was 
wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg on the advance 
battle line. He was devoted to his men, brave and scru- 
pulous in the performance of his official duties, and made 
a good record both for himself and for his company. He 
re-entered the service as First Lieutenant in Colonel Alle- 
man's 36th Regiment. 



OFFICERS OF COMPANY "D." 



Captain Rufus E. Cable resigned at Camp Dauphin, 
two days before the regiment marched to the Rappahan- 
nock and joined the Army of the Potomac. 

Captain James B. Keene, of Company "D," had the 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 189 

proud distinction of a triple promotion, and over the heads 
of two lieutenants, from a non-commissioned officer, to the 
captaincy of the company. He was chosen for merit, and 
proved himself entirely worthy of the great confidence 
which was placed in him. He took the very best care of 
his men, and, while mild, he was strict in discipline, and 
was always prompt in executing orders. He was a gallant 
officer, and was slightly wounded at the battle of Freder- 
icksburg, while bravely leading his men in battle. He was 
faithful and true, beloved by every one in his company, 
and had the full confidence of his superior officers. 

Joshua M. Wiestling, Esq., was First Lieutenant of 
Company "D," and gave encouraging promise of military 
distinction. He was, unfortunately, invalided and com- 
pelled to leave the service, from disability, much to his re- 
gret, and the united regret of his associate and superior 
officers. 

Lieutenant William B. Osman, of Company "D," 
smarted under the promotion which was made over his 
head, and profited by the rebuke. When the regiment 
was mustered out of service, he lost no time in re-entering 
the service, determined to die or make a distinguished 
record. Unfortunately, he was killed in one of the great 
battles of the Wilderness. 

Lieutenant Marcus Novinger, of Company "D,'^ made 
a creditable record and was a worthy officer. He was 
courageous and assertive, and always took a very great in- 
terest in his men, and was prompt, intelligent and faithful 
in the discharge of his official duties. He was wounded 
at the battle of Fredericksburg, but returned to his com- 
mand at the very earliest possible opportunity, and be- 
haved gallantly at the battle of Chancellorsville. 



190 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

OFFICERS OF COMPANY "E." 



Captain Lorenzo L. Greenawalt, of Company "E," was 
a quiet, but most determined man. He walked from his 
home in Central Pennsylvania to California, simply by 
force of his indomitable will. He was of fine physique, 
great strength, characteristically mild and gentle, but al- 
ways firm, and of scrupulous integrity. He acted like a 
father to his command, and was greatly beloved by every 
man in his company. He was absolutely without fear, al- 
ways ready, and performed his official duties with exact- 
ing care and punctuality. He behaved with cool and ad- 
mirable courage in battle, and was slightly wounded at 
the battle of Fredericksburg. He was a trusted officer at 
headquarters, made an enviable reputation as captain, and 
knowing his duty, he performed it with credit to himself, 
and honor to his government. He again entered the ser- 
vice as major of Colonel Jennings' 26th Emergency Regi- 
ment. 

Lieutenant William P. Carmany, of Company "E," like 
Captain Greenawalt, was devoted to his men, and seemed 
happy in the performance of his military duties. Com- 
pany "E" was fortunate in its selection of officers, and 
they in turn were proud of the splendid material compos- 
ing the rank and file. Lieutenant Carmany was a capable, 
industrious and successful officer, and was slightly 
wounded at the battle of Chancellorsville. 

Lieutenant Joseph A. Bowman, of Company "E," was 
the reflex of the strong man at the head of the company. 
The officers acted in harmonious unison, and the company 
was a model in intelligence, morality, patriotism, and in 
the faithful performance of their duty. Lieutenant Bow- 
man richly deserved the great respect shown him by his 
company. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I9I 

OFFICERS OF COMPANY "F." 



Captain W. H. Hummel, by reason of the detachment 
of Company "A," held the important and responsible po- 
sition of commander of the right division of the regiment 
until after the battle of Fredericksburg, when he and his 
company were assigned to duty at the headquarters of 
General Howard. He was popular with his men, as he 
always had a care for them, and he had the respect of 
regimental headquarters, and the confidence of division 
headquarters. While he was not assertive, he was thor- 
oughly reliable, and always ready to obey an order. He 
maintained his position with credit to himself, and re-en- 
tered the service as a Captain of Cavalry. 

Lieutenant John T. Morgan recruited a number of his 
workmen and neighbors at Fairview, in Cumberland 
county, and joined forces with Captain Jennings in form- 
ing Company "F." He was a popular officer, looked 
carefully after his men, made a good record for 
himself, as well as for the men he commanded. He was 
always ready for duty, and always discharged it with an 
intelligent zeal that made him popular both with his com- 
pany and his superior officers. 

Lieutenant Thomas G. Sample, of Company "F," was 
the most aggressive officer in the company. While he was 
never charged with any attempt to shirk duty, he was em- 
phatic in maintaining his rights, and he became noted in 
the regiment as the one officer who would not allow him- 
self to be "left." He was the very antipodes of Captain 
Hummel, who was proverbially noted for his modesty, 
while Lieutenant Sample made no pretensions in that di- 
rection. He was the youngest officer in the regiment. 



192 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

OFFICERS OF COMPANY "G." 



Captain John J. Ball, of Company "G," was a model 
drillmaster, without being an offensive martinet. He was 
of a genial disposition, kind-hearted, but soldierly and 
commanding in manner and appearance. He was devoted 
to drill, and Company "G" marched, acted and manoeu- 
vred as one man. Captain Ball made an excellent record, 
was wounded at the battle of Fredericksburg, had the full 
confidence of his superior officers, and was beloved by 
every man in his command. 

Lieutenant George Hynicka, of Company "G," was al- 
ways light-hearted and cheery. He took good care of the 
boys, was proud of their military accomplishments, and 
rendered a good account of himself. He was brave in ac- 
tion, alert in camp, and was an all-round popular officer. 

Lieutenant Hudson Denny, of Company "G," was a 
faithful assistant to Captain Ball. He was an intelligent, 
industrious officer, took good care of his men, and 
performed his duties with credit to himself, and to the 
satisfaction of his superior officers. He was a gallant of- 
ficer, was wounded at the Battle of Fredericksburg, and 
made a creditable record as a brave and accomplished 
officer. 



OFFICERS OF COMPANY "H." 



Captain John K. Shott, of Company "H," was elected 
First Lieutenant, and almost immediately promoted to a 
captaincy, without any previous military experience or 
advantages of mastering the details of subordinate posi- 
tions before assuming the command of the company. He 
was a quiet, unobtrusive business man of the strictest in- 
tegrity, of fine social position, and enjoyed the profound- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 193 

est respect of his neighbors in Middletown. He had char- 
acter, business abiHty, the highest moral habits, and was 
in every respect an exemplary citizen. 

He keenly felt the death of his son, Corporal Frank A. 
Shott, and after burying him at home, returned to Camp 
Dauphin very much broken, and was left in charge of the 
invalids and in command of the camp, reporting and re- 
suming command of his company early in January. 

He was looked up to by his men, whom he always 
watched with fatherly care, and was indefatigable in his 
endeavors to master the requirements of his official sta- 
tion. He secured the aftections of his men, and the re- 
spect of his superior officers. 

Lieutenant Isaiah Willis, of Company "H," was a capa- 
ble and vigilant officer. He established a respectable 
record for himself, and while in command of his com- 
pany, displayed ability which secured him the confidence 
of his men and the respect of his superior officers. 

Lieutenant James R. Schreiner, of Company "H," was 
tried at the battle of Fredericksburg, found wanting, and 
permitted to resign. 

Dr. Jacob R. Knisley made strenuous efforts to recruit 
a company, and succeeding only in securing a few men, he 
was made orderly sergeant of Company "H,^' and on the 
resignation of Lieutenant Schreiner, was promoted to Sec- 
ond lieutenant of the company. He was one of the best 
subordinate officers in the regiment. He was brave, dis- 
played good judgment, and remarkable coolness upon the 
battlefield. He was selected to command the skirmish 
line at the battle of Chancellorsville, and gallantly led his 
men forward. After receiving a mortal wound, and while 
prostrate on the ground, he waved his sword, gallantly 
urging his men forward, and showed them how a brave 
man could die in the full discharge of his official duty. 



194 MEMORIAL HISTORV 

OFFICERS OF COMPANY "I." 



Captain Ira R. Shipley, of Company "I," was in the 
service too short a time to make a record for himself, 
and by reason of physical disability, resigned on the 6th 
of October, 1862. 

Captain Christian A. Nissley was promoted and trans- 
ferred to succeed Captain Shipley. He at once gave tone 
to the company, and proved himself a very efficient com- 
mander. He was industrious and zealous, took great 
pride in his company, and worked it up to a high standard. 
He was a refined gentleman, kind and considerate to his 
subordinate officers and men, a good disciplinarian, digni- 
fied and commanding, without the slightest show of of- 
fensiveness ; so he became, by genuine merit, the pride of 
his company, and a trusted officer by his superiors in rank. 
He was as courageous in battle as he was the affectionate 
master in camp, and made a brilliant name for both him- 
self and his company. 

Prof. James S. Shoemaker became, by consolidation of 
his following with the Adams county company, the First 
lieutenant of Company "I." He was a gentleman of cul- 
ture, and worked hard for a military record. He was 
brave and met death like a hero at the battle of Freder- 
icksburg, where he was instantly killed, and afterwards 
identified by the burying party. He was buried where he 
fell, deeply lamented by his associate officers, and by the 
men he so gallantly led in the brilliant charge on the 13th 
of December, 1862. 

Lieutenant Jerome W. Henry, of Company "I," was the 
second youngest officer in the Regiment. His youthful ap- 
pearance gave no indication of the sterling stuff of which 
he was made. His gallantry at Fredericksburg nearly cost 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 105 

him his life. He was severely woimded, and was pro- 
moted for his bravery. 

Lieutenant William W. Reed was transferred from 
Company "F," and promoted to Second Lieutenant of 
Company "1." He, too, had a very youthful appearance, 
but dignified, polished in manners, energetic, and made a 
good officer, greatly esteemed by his company officers and 
men, and respected at headquarters for his manliness and 
soldierly qualities. 



OFFICERS OF COMPANY "K." 



Captain William Fox, of Company "K," was the only 
man in the regiment who had seen service in the Confed- 
erate army. He had been drafted, but took the first oppor. 
tunity to escape, entered the Federal lines, went to Schuyl- 
kill county, Pennsylvania, and raised a company for the 
Union service. He was the first man in the regiment to 
fall in battle. He was afifable, companionable, intelligent, 
and intensely patriotic. He was greatly beloved by his 
men, and esteemed by every officer and man in the regi- 
ment. His sad death was deeply mourned, as he gave 
much promise of a brilliant military record. 

Captain Joseph W. Dougherty, of Company "K," was 
promoted immediately on the death of Captain Fox. He 
was distinguished, not only for his natty appearance, self- 
reliance and military accomplishments, but he was par- 
ticularly brave and collected, and handled his men on the 
battlefield with consummate ability and good judgment. 
He made a splendid record, and was popular with his 
command. 

Lieutenant Daniel S. Long, of Company "K," was pro- 
moted by seniority of rank, and proved himself a good 



T96 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

officer. Esteemed by his men, and respected by his su- 
perior officers, he caught the inspiration of his captain and 
behaved bravely in battle. 

Lieutenant William J. Barr, of Company "K," was pro- 
moted from non-commissioned officer, and displayed abil- 
ity as an officer, and conducted himself with coolness and 
tact in battle. Like his fellow officers, he made a good 
military record for himself and for Company "K." 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Return of the Regiment. 



WHILE the regiment occupied a special train of the 
^_____, Northern Central Railway at Baltimore, early 
^H^, on Saturday, the i6th of May, 1863, a telegram 
to that effect was despatched to Harrisburg, 
when the committee of twenty-one leading citizens of the 
capital and vicinity were summoned in accordance with 
previous arrangement, to meet at the ringing of the 
court house bell. This committee, of which Senator 
David Mumma was chairman, had been appointed at a 
mass meeting, to give the 127th Regiment a home greet- 
ing and public reception. 

The committee went to York in the performance of 
their official duty. They had neglected tO' provide them- 
selves with official badges; and as they learned that the 
special train bringing the boys would not reach York for 
a full hour, the committee authorized its chairman to pur- 
chase red, white and blue ribbons, to decorate and dis- 
tinguish themselves; not knowing at the time that their 
chairman was color-blind, and he, either not aware of the 
fact, or disregarding it, went to a store in York, and 
bought a quantity of ribbons of all possible colors and 
hues; and by the time he reported, there was no time left 
for exchange, so the committee was decorated in ribbons 
of a motley variety ; but notwithstanding the singular in- 
congruity, this was not particularly observable, as the en- 
thusiasm of the committee, at the sight of their returning 

197 



198 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

friends — like charity — covered up all defects and over- 
sights. 

On the arrival of the special train at York, the commit- 
tee gave the regiment a hearty and generous welcome, 
took it into their charge, and escorted it home ; and on the 
departure of the train, wired that fact to Harrisburg, 
where the firing of a signal gun on Capitol Hill announced 
to the citizens that the regiment was speeding from York. 

The Harrisburg morning newspapers had announced 
that the regiment would leave Washington City early in 
the morning, and that it might be expected to reach Har- 
risburg shortly after noon ; so the streets commenced fill- 
ing up early in the day with the friends and neighbors 
of the returning troops; and as the citizens universally 
decorated their houses in honor of the 127th Regiment, 
Harrisburg put on a gay, patriotic and holiday appear- 
ance, each neighbor vieing with the other in the profusion 
and elaboration of the outside decorations. 

About every house displayed the American flag, and 
some were profusely and handsomely decorated with' 
bunting and flowers, while the streets had banners and 
streamers displayed in lavish extravagance. Some of the 
banners crossing the streets had brave words of greeting 
to the gallant boys of the Dauphin county regiment. 
"Welcome home brave 127th Regiment." "Welcome! 
welcome home our gallant citizen soldiers." "A hearty 
welcome to the brave boys of the 127th regiment." "We 
honor our boys for their gallant bravery." "The 127th 
Regiment forever." "Our boys are heroes." "Home 
Again." "Home, Sweet Home," and many other suitable 
and inspiring mottoes were hung across the streets ; while 
every window on Market street, Third street, State street, 
and Second street, along the line of march, was filled with 




CORPOEAL JOHN REINOEHL. 
Co. "E," V2-n\ llrgiinciit, I'. V. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. I99 

persons, chiefly ladies, waving handkerchiefs, swinging 
hats or flags, and demonstrating in every conceivable way 
their unbounded delight at seeing their relatives or old 
friends return, covered all over with military glory. The 
shops and stores were closed in honor of the occasion. Not 
only the sidewalks, but the streets were thronged with the 
mass of people who had gathered from far and near to 
welcome back the gallant boys who had so promptly re- 
sponded to the call of the Government. 

When the train reached the Cumberland end of the 
bridge, a salute of seventeen guns was fired from Capitol 
Hill ; and simultaneously the court house bell, the church 
bells, the fire engine bells, the factory bells, and in fact all 
of the bells of the city commenced pealing, and continued 
ringing; while the factories, locomotives and engines 
whistled and shrieked, and this ringing and incessant 
shrieking, and thundering clatter was kept up until the 
regiment disembarked at the station ; when the wildest 
cheers were given by thousands upon thousands of the 
assembled crowd, who pressed forward to grasp the hands 
of the boys as they briskly stepped from the train. The 
regiment was soon formed, with Colonel Jennings and 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman on their horses in the front, 
preceded by the committee; — and Major Rohrer in his 
place on the flank, — followed by the regimental band, the 
drum corps, and the survivors, all fresh from the battle- 
field. Many of the men late of Company "A," fell in the 
rear of Company "B," and participated in the grand and 
last march of the organization. 

The contrast between those boys when they left for the 
front, the previous August, and on their return, was 
marked in tlie very strongest manner. They started with 
bright uniforms, pale faces, and inexperienced ; but with a 



200 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

determined look to do their duty. They returned bronzed, 
hardened, bearded, dirty ; but they marched with the pre- 
cision of trained, well-disciplined soldiers; weighted down, 
but agile, with their blankets, their knapsacks, their cart- 
ridge boxes, and their trusted musket upon their shoul- 
ders. There were some with their heads bandaged, some 
with their arms in slings, others limping from wounded 
feet and legs, while those, less fortunate in their wounds, 
were conveyed in ambulances which brought up the rear. 
They went out with full ranks — they returned with deci- 
mated ranks, but covered all over with manly honor. As 
they briskly stepped forward, marching with the steadi- 
ness of experienced veterans, they were cheered to 
the echo by thousands upon thousands, as they were sev- 
erally recognized ; and Harrisburg never before witnessed 
such spontaneous and generous greetings of welcome as 
were given to the brave boys of the 127th Regiment. 
Fathers and mothers, wives and children, sisters and 
brothers, sweethearts and friends, seemed wild in their en- 
thusiasm at the sight of those returning heroes, who had 
so grandly and so nobly defended the flag and the honor 
of their country. The regiment marched out Market 
street, over other streets, and up Third street, and halted 
in front of the capitol, where they were received by Gov- 
ernor Curtin and his cabinet, the State officers, the Judges 
of the Supreme Court, the Judges of the Common Pleas 
Court, the Mayor and the Councils of the city, and passed 
in review before them. 

They were welcomed by General A. L. Roumfort, the 
Mayor of the city of Harrisburg, in the following grace- 
ful and eloquent speech : 

"Nine months ago, at the call of your country, you 
promptly rallied around the standard of your regiment. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 201 

and marched to the post of danger. Since that period you 
have endured, with heroic fortitude, the toils, the hard- 
ships and the dangers of an active campaign, in defence 
of your Government, and the integrity of the Union. You 
forgot every privation, every personal danger, and hailed 
with joy the thunder of battle, which to your fearlessness 
was but a relief from the monotony of the bivouac. You 
have proved yourselves true, devoted, patriotic soldiers, 
worthy of the noble old State of Pennsylvania, which in 
war as well as in peace, has ever proved herself the sheet- 
anchor of our republican institutions. 

"Soldiers of the 127th Regiment ! Every drop of blood 
you have shed, every life you have lost upon the field of 
honor, shall henceforth stand as a lasting record of your 
patriotism and military fame. Whilst away on the tented 
field, many a heart in this city throbbed with anxiety for 
your welfare, and your safety ; and now, that you have re- 
turned to our midst, to the enjoyment of your hearth- 
stones, and the genial influence of your household gods, 
I, in the name of an unanimous population, greet you with 
a most hearty welcome. 

"The services which you have rendered to your country 
have fervently strengthened the ties which unite you to 
this community ; and the laurels which you have won, will 
be ever green in the hearts of your grateful fellow citizens. 

"Once more, welcome to your homes, brave soldiers of 
the I27tli Regiment! When your first military obligations 
have been fulfilled, your fellow citizens hope to meet you 
at the festive board, where they may express to you their 
personal esteem, and enjoy with you the "feast of reason 
and the flow of soul." 

To this beautiful and deserved tribute of praise. Colonel 
W. W. Jennings replied briefly, but tersely; and the regi- 
ment responded by three times three cheers. 



202 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

The Governor grasped each officer by the hand and bade 
him a hearty welcome home, assuring them that they more 
than fulfilled his great expectations, and that he was proud 
of the gallant services which had been so bravely per- 
formed by the patriotic heroes of the I27tli Regiment. 

Harrisburg had witnessed many demonstrations of re- 
turning troops from the Warof 1812; the Indian Wars, 
and the Mexican War, and of the tens of thousands of 
troops of the great Civil War, but the demonstration on 
behalf of the "Dauphin County Regiment," exceeded them 
all in spontaneous outbursts of genuine welcome, and in 
enthusiastic demonstrations of the wildest joy. 

The boys were given a furlough until Monday, to re- 
port in Camp Curtin, where the muster-out rolls were pre- 
pared; and, on completion, the men and officers were 
paid, mustered out of the United States service, and each 
received his honorable discharge on the 29th day of May, 
1863. , ^ 



Summary. 




jHE following summary was prepared by Comrade 
George D. Rise, in his notes and historical sketch 
I of the regiment. 

The 127th Regiment was complimented by 
Major-General Abercrombie, in whose Division it servea 
for nearly four months, as one of the best drilled and 
most orderly regiments in the service ; and far above the 
average in intelligence, education and moral deportment. 
Like high encomiums were pronounced upon it by Major- 
General D. N. Couch, our venerated Corps Commander. 

In discipline it had no superior, for wdiich great credit 
is due to our grand colonel, W. W. Jennings, a strict dis- 
ciplinarian, but lovable and kind, and beloved by every 
member of the regiment. 

A like credit is due to both Lieutenant-Colonel H. C. 
Alleman, and Major J. Rohrer, who so ably assisted him, 
and who were each highly esteemed by the whole regiment 
for their sterling qualities and devotion to their official 
duties, knowing them, they performed them unhesitating- 
ly, intelligently and in the most commendable manner. 
Each, at various times, commanded the regiment, and 
proved themselves eminently worthy of that great honor 
and fearful responsibility. 

The line officers deserve much praise for the admirable 
manner in which they so ably and willingly performed 
their company duties. Their correct deportment, and sol- 
dierly conduct, reflected their character upon their respec- 
tive commands. They obeyed and carried out their orders 
with scrupulous care, and without a murmur, suffering 

203 



204 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the privations, the fatigues and the exposures of the ele- 
ments on the marches, the picket Hne, and assigned duties, 
and never shirked the dangers of the battlefields. 

The non-commissioned officers were selected for merit, 
and were intelligent men, who obeyed and carried out their 
instructions punctually, intelligently and creditably, al- 
ways with good cheer, and in a patriotic spirit. 

The rank and file of each company were very far supe- 
rior to the ordinary run of the common soldier. They 
came from good families, were educated, and, besides be- 
ing able-bodied, they were imbued with high moral prin- 
ciples, and were thoroughly patriotic in feeling. They 
felt a pride in both their company and regiment; while 
their earnest friendship and good feeling for each other 
was rather remarkable. They exhibited not only respect, 
but profound esteem — bordering on affection for their of- 
ficers — who relied implicitly on them; and in the many 
severe tests and terrible ordeals through which they pass- 
ed, found that their confidence was not misplaced. 

For superior intelligence, a high sense of honor, a dig- 
nity of character, and excellent discipline, the 127th Regi- 
ment stood second to none in the figthing Army of the 
Potomac. 

The official decision fixed the expiration of service on 
May 14th, 1863, and, in pursuance of orders, the regi- 
ment was relieved, and ordered to report at Harrisburg, 
to be mustered out of the service. 

During its term of service, it did much arduous picket 
duty; great and valuable fatigue duty, and was engaged 
in two battles — unsurpassed in severity — and lost an ag- 
gregate of four officers killed and mortally wounded, 
thirty-nine men killed and died of wounds ; thirteen officers 
and 264 men wounded, besides fifty-four slightly wound- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V, 205 

ed, who failed to go to the hospital, or report disability to 
the adjutant; sixteen men died in hospitals; thirty-eight 
men were discharged, and eleven men were captured. Four 
officers resigned; one officer and three men were trans- 
ferred, and twenty-seven officers were promoted. 

CASUALTIES. 

Killed,— 4 officers 39 men 

Wounded, — 13 officers 318 

Died in hospital,. . 16 

Discharged 3^ " 

Captured, 11" 

Loss 17 officers 422 men 

Resigned, — 4 officers. 
Transferred, — i officer and 3 men. 
Promoted, — 2^ officers. 



CHAPTER IX. 
INCIDENTS OF THE SERVICE. 



MANY happenings clnring the term of the regiment 
i^^___^ occurred, of more or less interest, and some of 
^^^ them of sufficient importance to become matters 
of record ; and as some of these were prepared by 
comrades and afterwards read at the annual reunions of 
the Association, or narrated at the annual campfires, it 
was concluded to embody a few of them in a separate 
chapter as "Incidents of the Service." 



A COMMUTED SENTENCE. 



When the regiment left Washington, it was followed 
by a couple of detectives, and, on reaching Camp Welles, 
one of the men was arrested for desertion and repeated 
bounty- jumping. He was court-martialed, convicted and 
sentenced to be shot. The severity of the sentence in- 
duced the Lieutenant-Colonel, who was then in command 
of the regiment, to prepare an application to have the sen- 
tence commuted; and after signing it, in. order to avoid 
the usual delays in forwarding it through the regular 
channels, he secured the approval of Colonel Jennings, 
who was in command of the brigade, of General Aber- 
crombie, who was in command of the division, and so on 
up to the commander of the Army of the Potomac. He 
went to Washington, called on General McClellan, and 
after some difficulty, secured a personal interview. He 

206 



i27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 207 

made a strong appeal to the General, who listened patiently 
and attentively, and then asked the question, "Have you 
any doubt in your own mind of the guilt of this man?" 
The lieutenant-colonel replied frankly, "None in the 
least." General McClellan then expressed with some 
warmth : "And you, Colonel Alleman, have the assurance, 
being fully satisfied of this man's guilt, to ask me to com- 
mute his sentence? The court-martial evidently wished 
to make an example of this man, and he surely deserves 
the punishment of his sentence." The lieutenant-colonel 
replied, "The poor devil may deserve the sentence' — he is 
not a Pennsylvanian, he is only a foreigner — but I am not 
pleading for him, and candor compels me to admit that I 
keenly feel the disgrace which the deserting bounty- 
jumper has cast upon his fellow comrades — but I am 
pleading for his one thousand Pennsylvania comrades — 
all brave and true men ; I am pleading for the honor and 
good name of the regiment! If this sentence should be 
carried out, the news would be heralded all over the coun- 
try that a member of the 127th Regiment has been shot 
for desertion and bounty- jumping." The earnestness of 
the lieutenant-colonel made a strong and favorable impres- 
sion, and General McClellan took up the paper, and wrote, 
"Sentence commuted to three years imprisonment with 
ball and chain, in the Dry Tortugas," and handed the pa- 
per to the lieutenant-colonel, who, on reading it, exclaim- 
ed, "My God, General ! that is as bad as the sentence, as it 
is certain death." With a smile the General then said, 
"Write what you want." The lieutenant-colonel then 
wrote, "Sentence commuted for daily police duty, and 
confinement in the guard house of his regiment for the 
term of his enlistment." The General good-naturedly 
smiled and stated, "That is no punishment commensurate 



2o8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

with the crime;" but the lieutenant-colonel argiied that 
it was "hell upon earth," as it would be a daily mortifica- 
tion to be so humiliated in the daily presence of his com- 
rades. The change was made and officially signed, and 
the prisoner was returned to his regiment to have the 
changed sentence executed. When he was brought before 
the commander of the regiment, and his commuted sen- 
tence read to him, he prostrated himself and licked the 
boots of the lieutenant-colonel, to show him the gratitude 
he felt for saving his life. He was ordered to the guard- 
house, after a gentle admonition to do his duty and ah 
would be well. 



THE VICISSITUDES OF A SOLDIER. 



BY CAPTAIN JAMES B. KEENE. 

There is a vast difference between a fire in camp, a 
"campfire," and a fire at home. A fire always creates ex- 
citement. The destruction of business enterprises, and 
the desolation of homes, excite a universal sympathy ; and 
when an appeal is made, substantial aid is almost invari- 
ably the consequence from a generous public; but on the 
tented field, the result is different. While there is no lack 
of excitement, and really no lack of sympathy, a conflagra- 
tion in camp is a calamity, notwithstanding the fact that 
the destroyed temporary home is only a little white tri- 
angular A house of canvass, and sometimes only a shelter 
tent, of but trifling intrinsic value, but it deprives the sol- 
dier of his shelter, and the result is calamitous, and it is 
almost always caused by carelessness in the use of 
matches, or of sparks from the pipe, while the soldier is 
enjoying the luxury of a smoke. 



127th regiment, p. v. 209 

When the chilly atmosphere renders a fire necessary, he 
sometimes indulges in a stove, but the stove of a soldier 
is very primitive in character, consisting of a hole dug in 
the ground about a foot deep, at the rear end of the little 
tent, upon which is placed two or three barrels, if the 
same happen to come in the way of the confiscator. These 
barrels are placed on top of each other, and plastered in- 
side with mud. Barring the discomfiture of occasional 
volumes of smoke which adverse winds would drive back 
into the limited quarters, causing the emblems of sorrow 
to trickle down the brawny cheeks of the occupants, and 
not infrequently driving them into the open air, a good 
deal of warmth comes from a fire built in this improvised 
stove, making the occupants comparatively comfortable. 
This stupendous chimney would frequently catch fire, and 
sometimes, when least expected, and even while the occu- 
pants were interested in a social game or chat, a cry of 
"fire" would arouse the camp, and bring to the scene a 
host of volunteer firemen; and notwithstanding their 
sympathy, they would always express the greatest delight 
in assisting to prevent the destruction of these soldier 
chimneys, which were not so tall, but that the top could 
be reached without the aid of a ladder. 

Old Wilhelm Leiser, of Company "D," was a character 
in his way, and enjoyed the distinction of having served 
in the Prussian army — a distinction of which he was ex- 
ceedingly proud. His manner and habits gave unmistak- 
able evidence of thorough discipline and soldierly training, 
which was at all times particularly noticeable in the care 
of his person, uniform, equipments, and particularly of his 
gun, which he always presented to the inspector with a 
look of unbounded satisfaction, and assurance that not a 
single fault could be found under the scrutinizing eye of 



210 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the inspecting officials. But poor Wilhelm came to grief 
one day. He was off duty, strolling leisurely about the 
camp, and by some misfortune, his tent, which contained 
all of his earthly treasures, caught fire and was mostly 
consumed. The amateur firemen as usual, were on hand, 
and the fire was extinguished, but not before the soldierly 
Wilhelm's polished gun stock was entirely ruined. With 
a forlorn look of despair, and eyes filled with tears, he 
stood embracing his ruined pet. He, of course, had the 
sympathy of his comrades, for he was a kind-hearted old 
fellow, with a very limited command of the English 
tongue, which made his utterances difficult of comprehen- 
sion ; but in his mother tongue, he was very voluble, and 
would, in his natal language, spin yarns by the hour of his 
many and thrilling experiences in the Prussian army ; and 
as he approached Captain Keene and unburdened his 
woes, he expressed his great, great grief sorrily; but in 
broken English, very difficult to understand, "Mein Gott, 
keptang, mein peutiful gun ish tet kilt, and I ish yust so 
gut as kilt too. Dot fire dun de pizness; vot shall I do, 
vot shall I do? I don't got no gelt to get me annutter 
gun, and I might yusht so good be det myself ennymore." 
Insurance agents were conspicuous in camp by their 
absence, and the question with poor Wilhelm was one of 
compensation for his pet, or a substitute which he could 
burnish and equally prize. His captain solved the problem 
and made it all right, to the delight of the victim, by re- 
quiring Uncle Sam to pocket the loss. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 21 1 

MY FIRST EXPERIENCE ON PICKET DUTY. 



BY MAJOR J. ROHRER. 
(Delivered at our reunion at HarriBburg.) 

The regiment had only occupied Camp Boas a few days 
when an orderly rode np to Colonel Jennings' tent and 
delivered a sealed message, which read : "Headquarters, 
Abercrombie's Division, August 29th, 1862. Major J. 
Rohrer, 127th Regiment, will report at these headquarters 
at nine A. M. tomorrow for instructions, with a detail of 
two companies for picket duty. 

"J. A. Slipper, Capt. and A. A. Gen'l, 

"Abercrombie's Division." 

At 9 A. M, I reported at headquarters for duty. 
Captain Slipper gave me orders to take the two companies 
to Langley, and run a picket line from Langley to the 
Potomac river; to be on the alert, as spies are passing 
through the hills constantly. I said, "Where is Langley?" 
Pie said, "You go out the Leesburg pike about three miles 
and you will find Langley." The two companies detailed 
were Company "H," Captain Shott, and Company "E," 
Captain Greenawalt — two good companies for any duty — 
even for foraging ! We took up our march, and after pro- 
ceeding a mile, an orderly came galloping toward us. I 
called, "Can you tell me where Langley is?" He replied, 
"Don't know," and went on. We continued our march. 
The farm houses on both sides of the pike were set back 
some distance, and about half a mile apart, but some clos- 
er. I called "Halt !" to rest. On a road leading south- 
west to our left, and at a distance, cavalry horses were 
seen tied to the fence. I rode up and found it was General 
Sigel's headquarters, in a large frame house, painted 



212 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

white, which could be seen for miles from its high eleva- 
tion. I came back, and we marched on; met another or- 
derly coming towards us. I inquired, "Can you tell me 
where Langley is?" "Don't know," and like the other, 
never stopped his speed. The march was resumed, and 
after marching about five miles (as I thought), we dis- 
covered that the houses were much closer, and in front of 
us was a cross road, and beyond was a toll gate on the 
right of the road ; near the cross-roads was a house with 
porch and a jib door from corner room to the porch, which 
I inwardly concluded suited us for headquarters. I said to 
Captain Shott, "This must be Langley." My instructions 
were to take posession of any house or room for headquar- 
ters that suited me. We marched up the lawn (through 
rows of locust trees), to the house; the boys enjoyed the 
shade, for it was a very hot day in August. I said to 
Captain Shott, "Come, we will make inquiries ; this I think 
is Langley." We stepped to the dining room door, and a 
lady appeared. I said, "Who lives here?" She said, 
"Mr. Hodges (from York State)." I said, "We would 
like to take a look at that corner room." She said, "Oh, 
my, that's Mr. Crook Shank's parlor." "Where is Mr. 
Crook Shank?" "He lives in Georgetown." "Oh, well 
we won't hurt the parlor or furniture ; where is the key to 
this door?" "I don't know," she said. "All right, we will 
open the door. Captain Shott pry open that door." (This 
was the inside door leading to the parlor.) "Oh my, 
don't do that!" She then called, "Margie, Margie! do 
you know where the key is to Mr. Crook Shank's parlor?" 
"Yes, m'am, here it is." Margie was the daughter, and 
when she saw so many soldiers coming up the lawn, she 
fled upstairs. We entered the parlor, opened the jib door 
to the porch. I said, "This suits us; Mrs. Hodges, you 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 213 

lock this door and keep the key for we have no use for it." 
The door was locked, and I never afterwards knew it to 
be unlocked. During all this excitement, I forgot to ask 
]\Irs. Hodges where Langley was, for had I done so, we 
would have probably moved farther on. This was a 
beautiful location for headquarters. The parlor had mat- 
ting on the floor, walnut table, a very wide settee, which 
suited me to lie on, a few chairs of walnut, that never had 
been varnished (just oiled). 

The picket line was then established. Captain Slipper 
sent me the password sealed ("Delhi"). Company "E," 
Captain Greenawalt, took the cross-road leading north to- 
wards the Potomac, until they came near to Mr. Reed's 
farm, about half a mile from the pike. Here the road 
turned at right angles, west to another Reed — they being 
brothers. The line took in the first Reed between the 
house and spring-house. So the Reeds' could not get to the 
spring-house, unless the captain of the guard was called. 
The boys kept a good watch on the house, and a better 
watch on the spring-house, by night and day. (I rode 
past that spring-house many times afterwards ; after mid- 
night alone, on guard rounds; it was built of stone and 
near a run. I was told that the water in that spring-house 
was the best in the world, and the milk and cream also; 
even the butter was very good.) Company "H," Captain 
Shott, joined picket on Company "E's" left to Leesburg 
pike, and west to toll gate, and the reserve at headquarters. 
The line was finished, over hills and hollows, through 
timber and brush. It was just such a country where spies 
could stay, and get all the information from the sympa- 
thizers they wanted. The next morning (Sunday) Cap- 
tain Greenawalt reported his experience. After midnight, 
a lantern was swaying to and fro from an upper window. 



214 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

or from the house top ; this was from the upper Reed, out- 
side our line. (These houses had flat or gravel roofs.) 
The swinging of the lantern was a signal to spies who 
frequented these places. It was reported that the Reeds 
liad sons or sons-in-law in the Confederate army. Captain 
Greenawalt took a detail of pickets and marched over to 
Reed's house, knocked at front door; no answer; went to 
rear door; knocked, no answer; all dark and very quiet. 
Captain Greenawalt then called aloud. "If any more dem- 
onstrations here tonight, I will arrest the whole house- 
hold." The line was then extended beyond this house, so 
both the Reeds were inside of our lines. Xo doubt the 
Reeds had communicated with our enemies all the time, 
for it was a countrv just suited for such purposes. Sun- 
day morning Captain Shott and I walked out the pike to 
the gate house, and examined the line. I saw beyond, 
about one-third of a mile, a village. "What town is that?" 
I asked. Some one answered, "Langley.'' "Langley? I 
thought we were at Langley.'" We then walked to Lang- 
ley and took a survey of the country. Langley is a village 
of about eighteen houses, mostly one story, old and ding}' 
looking, except a large frame house, said to have been a 
hotel. At this house a road turned south towards Louins- 
ville (three miles distant), called the Louinsville road. 
Louinsville is a better town than Langley, better houses. 
more of them and a fine church (stone), large grave-yard 
with stone walls around it : cavalry horses grazing in the 
grave-yard. Of course the horses took good care not to 
break any of the marble tomb stones, for they were quite 
numerous. Retired to headquarters; this was about 9 
A. M. Captain Slipper arrived about 10 a. m., rode over 
the line with him to the Potomac and back ; told him what 
had occurred, and that I had trouble to find Langley, and 



I27Tn REGIMENT, P. V. 21 5 

only found it this morning. W'e then rode to Langley; 
he said, "Better extend the line to here on the pike, and 
hereafter we will run from Langley over the hill to the 
Potomac." We then returned to headquarters. He said, 
"Good quarters here, better hold on to them; no better 
quarters around here."' The captain then left and said, 
"Everything done appears all right." After dinner the 
first Reed called on me (in company with a soldier in our 
uniform; the soldier said he was sick and boarded there). 
Reed complained that the soldiers had taken his chickens 
that morning. I had heard the story in the morning ; the 
boys told me before Reed came, that he had hundreds of 
chickens and would not sell them any, and I know the 
boys told the truth. It was in this way: On Sunday 
morning the Reeds fed their chickens early, and our boys 
looked on; hundreds of fine pullets just ready for chicken 
corn soup, for the corn was then fine, like sweet corn ; they 
talked this over, and their mouths began to water, so they 
proposed to buy some pullets, but no, he wouldn't sell any. 
Money was no inducement. One of the boys had a stick 
in his hand, and bang went the stick on the nearest chick- 
en's head. Then there was a general raid on the flock. I 
never heard how many chickens were confiscated, but I 
believe some of Company "E" ate com soup and stewed 
chicken for several days. The green corn in that vicinity 
had to suffer very much — and the boys afterward ! 

I told Reed "we came here to put down the rebellion; 
we left our homes and families to sustain the Government, 
and you people are against the Government. Now my 
men wanted to buy your chickens, but you would not sell 
them at any price; they then confiscated the pullets, and 
the)^ had a grand feast, which they greatly enjoyed in old 
\^irginia. Now I want to say to you, that the least said 



2l6 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

about this matter the better; we did not come here to 
protect enemies' property, and if I had my own way of 
doing things I would confiscate the property of enemies, 
and the leaders I would punish according to the rules of 
war." Reed said to his man in blue, "Come, we can't get 
justice here," and they left even without saying goodbye. 
About 4 p. M., whilst sitting on the porch, a man six 
feet high at least, and very fat, wore a white stiff felt hat 
(and several other men following) came running from 
Langley and blowing, and puffing, the perspiration run- 
ning to his boots — all out of breath — after a time he said, 
"Rebs are coming in on the pike." I called the reserves 
together, marched to the pike to receive the Rebs. Sure 
enough there was a cavalry company coming, dust so thick 
you could not tell who they were, friend or foe, covered 
with dust. But it was one of our cavalry companies going 
towards our headquarters, or to Washington. The man 
with the white hat was hid behind the house peeping 
around the corner; after the cavalry passed, this man said, 
"Gad, I thought they were the Rebs." It must have taken 
him twenty-four hours to cool off. Everything passed off 
well during the night ; went over grand rounds after mid- 
night on foot, accompanied by Captain Shott, when we 
passed down the line about half a mile. We came to a 
picket posts, where there were three of Company "H's" 
men posted. Instead of at least one man standing guard, 
all three had put their guns against a white oak tree, and 
the three were lying (on a gum blanket) backs up and fast 
asleep. It was a beautiful moonlight night, the post was 
at the foot of the hill. When we saw the glittering of the 
guns and bayonets against the tree ; we looked and found 
the post fast asleep. Captain Shott drew his sword, and 
with the flat side brought it down heavily on the fleshy 




CAPTAIN HENRY A. SWARTZ. 

I,:ltc <'.l|-linLMl Cn. ■■{■,." V^Tlll Uc^ lUlC'l 1 1 . 1'. V . 

('Mlilniu Il.-iirisliiiry Zimnvrs. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 21/ 

part of the three sentinels ; at same time we made consid- 
erable noise, and brandishing our swords in the moonlight. 
They jumped up dazed, and stood like statues. Tliey were 
told the penalty was death for sleeping on a picket post, 
in face of the enemy. As the regiment was new, and this 
being the first ofifense, the matter was overlooked, and not 
reported, but the regiment was carefully instructed in all 
their duties and warned of the penalties. 

Monday morning, ii a. m. The relief came, and we 
marched for Camp Boas, fully satisfied with our forty- 
eight hours of picketing among the hills of the Potomac. 

A man may play soldier about home a long time, and 
even may think he "knows it all," but when he is brought 
to the front in active service, he soon finds that he has yet 
much to learn in the art of warfare. 



INCIDENT OF THE BATTLE OF FREDERICKSBURG. 



BY CORPORAL HENRY A. SWARTZ, OF COMPANY G. 

When the 127th Regiment, at the battle of Fredericks- 
burg, emerged from the town, on that fatal morning of 
the 13th of December, 1862, they marched up the hill with 
ranks lined, as in dress parade, under that terrible holc^- 
caust of iron hail and death, and laid down under the com- 
mand of the Colonel, on the crest of the hill, with the 
Irish Brigade only a few feet in front. In a few moments 
it was blown back on us, trampling us under foot, and 
carrying the regiment back with them in their mad rush to 
the rear. I was there, I saw Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman 
and Major Rohrer doing all that was possible for officers 
to do. I still hear their clarion voices far above the din of 



2l8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

battle, urging, entreating and commanding the men, 
"Steady, men! in the name of God don't retreat ! rally 
here!" But down the hill they went, over the dead and 
wounded, and it was only at the foot of the hill that these 
gallant officers were able to rally their command. The 
whole regiment was not carried back by this retreating 
Irish Brigade, for up on the hill lay Company "B," none 
of its officers were wounded, and the company clung to 
what they had won. But Colonel Jennings took them 
back to the foot of the hill, joining the rallied men, formed 
along the mill race. Here he was slightly wounded in the 
foot; but after nightfall, he marched the regiment back 
to its old quarters in Fredericksburg. 

He was disabled for duty, so that when the regiment 
was ordered on the battlefield again, twenty-four hours 
later, Colonel Alleman took command of the regiment, and 
marched them over the same ground and in advance of the 
line occupied on the previous day, and placed the men in 
position on the advance battle line, a little more to the 
right, resting on the Richmond pike, relieving the 6th 
United States Infantry. Although an attack was made on 
our front, during the night, our men fired vigorously, and 
the enemy retreated ; and we laid in position without any 
further attack, beyond continuous shots from sharpshoot- 
ers, whenever any man attempted to raise his head. 
Colonel Alleman had vidette pits dug during the night 
along our entire line, each occupied by two videttes, who 
were relieved at short periods. About the middle of the 
afternoon the enemy opened fire from siege guns on our 
right, and getting the range of our line, were enabled to 
pick off every man. Colonel Alleman called a conference of 
the officers, who decided that it was certain death to re- 
rnain in their present position. So he, after strengthening 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 219 

the videttes and making Company "B" the reserves, per- 
mitted the captains to take their commands to the rear, 
and the Heutenant-colonel reported in person to the com- 
manding General. 

Company "B" of the regiment was sheltered, and the 
only company of the regiment which had the least protec- 
tion, so they remained in position. There were also a few 
men of company "G" in line, of which I had command, as 
its officers — Captain Ball and Lieutenant Denny were 
wounded — had left the field. From my position, I had a 
full view along the line where the regiment had laid, and 
saw a thin line of the other companies ; but whether they 
were wounded or dead, I could not tell, as they lay mo- 
tionless. 

About an hour afterwards, Colonel Allenian performed 
an act of heroism and bravery unchallenged. He calmly 
returned to the broken line, walking up the hill, which 
was thickly strewn with dead and wounded; regardless 
of the many Minie balls fired at him by the sharpshooters, 
or the whizzing shells hurled at him by the belching bat- 
tery. I could not see another single officer or man in an 
upright position. Even the stretcher bearers were gone, 
and nothing but the dead and wounded were to be seen 
stretched out on that slope, three-quarters of a mile in 
length. He walked up to the crest of the hill looking up 
at those terrible heights, and down at the sunken road, 
and turning to the left, came down to where Sergeant 
Groft, of Company "B," and myself were lying. Colonel 
Alleman in a gentle voice said, "Boys are you still alive; 
I am afraid the day is lost." I got up on my knees, and 
caught his hand, and pulled him down, saying, "Lie down 
here, or you will surely be shot." Just in front of us lay 
a dead man, the bullets striking his knapsack every mo- 



220 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ment. On our right lay a dead horse, the bullets coming 
through his body, showing how close we were to the en- 
emy. Every few minutes Colonel Alleman bobbed his 
head up to look and view the situation, and then I would 
give him a dig in the ribs to make him lie down. This 
sounds strange in after years, and the future soldier will 
say, "it looks like poor discipline, for striking your su- 
perior officer means death." Yes, but we were right in it, 
death was all around us. I was in command of what was 
left of Company "G," and I was not taking any chances 
for my small command, or any risk for my superior 
officer. 

It was nearly dark when I called Colonel Alleman's at- 
tention to a number of soldiers a few hundred feet below 
on the hill, who came from the town, and were robbing 
the dead. He commanded us to "fire at the fiends," who 
then ran — what was left of them ! 

Colonel Alleman remained on the line until dark, then 
went back to the hospitals to look after the wounded, and 
find what was left of the regiment. We were relieved at 
midnight, and fell back to the town, when we were told 
to make no noise. We remained until three o'clock in 
that town, and then those who were sleeping in the houses 
were awakened, and we were hurriedly rushed to the 
pontoons. The ropes were cut, and the bridge floated to 
the Falmouth side, leaving behind us many brave boys in 
blue. The survivors rested in an open field until morning, 
and then marched back to Camp Alleman. 

During all the years that have passed, I have often won- 
dered whether Colonel Alleman thinks of that dreadful 
day, and of his comrades who shared the dangers with 
him ! 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 221 

ANECDOTES. 



Captain Ball, of Company "G," was fond of a practical 
joke. He secured a small piece of the thin end of a liver, 
and meeting one of the colored servants, who prided him- 
self upon his pomposity, as well as his full negro blood, 
saluted the captain, who stopped and appeared to get into 
an altercation with him. He suddenly pulled a knife out 
of his pocket, opened the blade, and pressed the back of 
the blade against the end of the darkey's ear, at the same 
time pinching it, and dexterously held up the piece of 
liver, wdiich was an exact imitation of the lower end of 
his ear. The darkey yelled, and raised up his hand to his 
ear to wipe off the blood, feeling sure that the captain had 
drawn blood and had a part of his anatomy in his hand. 
The captain enjoyed the joke hugely; but the poor darkey 
walked away without a word, feeling mortified at his im- 
aginary loss of a portion of his ear. 



The adjutant remarked the expressed anxiety of the 
boys at guard mount to be detailed as orderly at headquar- 
ters while the lieutenant-colonel was in command. The 
requirements were a white collar, blackened shoes, well 
brushed clothes, wath clean hands and face, in order to 
secure the detail. Each morning there were several anx- 
ious candidates for the place, and it became a matter of 
curiosity to the adjutant why this place was so anxiously 
sought. Of course, there was but little to do, and the or- 
derly had the advantage of hearing a good deal of news at 
headquarters, and in the absence of newspapers, a little 
news went a great way; but yet that did not seem a suffi- 
cient reason for the scramble to be orderly at the lieuten- 
ant-colonel's quarters. It was finally ascertained that the 



222 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

boys learned the fact, that although the lieutenant-colonel 
was a total abstainer, he required all the confiscated liquor 
taken at Chain Bridge to be delivered to him, and he was 
careful not to entrust it to any one else. Instead of open- 
ing the flasks and demijohns, and allowing the contents 
to run out, he placed them under his bunk, and indulged in 
daily whiskey abkitions, and when assured of any officers 
who would use the whiskey outside instead of inside, he 
was generous in distributing the spirits among them; but 
only for ablution purposes. 

Sometimes, on the return of the lieutenant-colonel to 
his quarters, he would notice that the orderly was either 
sleeping, or in a drowsy condition, but he was always as- 
sured by the orderly that he was "sick," but never com- 
plained enough to be released from duty. As this was of 
frequent occurrence, the lieutenant-colonel concluded that 
there must be some first cause, and could not understand 
why an orderly in seeming first-rate health in the morn- 
ing, should almost invariably be ill before the relief hour 
at night. He at last ascertained that the orderly discov- 
ered the whereabouts of the spirits, and learned that they 
considered it a great waste of the raw material to use it 
for bathing purposes, when they could enjoy drinking it. 
On this discovery, the lieutenant-colonel instantly refused 
to house any more of the spirits, and ordered all confis- 
cated liquors thereafter to be emptied on the ground, and 
from that time forward, there was no further illness 
among the orderlies at headquarters. 



Shortly after the regiment encamped at Fort Ethan Al- 
len, the colonel, who was then in command of a brigade, 
the lieutenant-colonel being in command of the regiment, 
and the major were chatting together at headquarters, 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 223 

when Chaplain Gregg, arrayed in a new uniform, with 
prominent shoulder straps, a regulation hat with a golden 
circlet, and a gold cord, sashed, belted and spurred, and 
with a sword dangling at his side, was seen approaching 
headquarters, but was then to them a stranger. Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel said, ''What damn fool is that ?" He stepped 
up to the Colonel and announced himself as "Chaplain 
Gregg," and presented his commission as chaplain of the 
127th Regiment. He was full of enthusiasm, and run- 
ning all over with patriotism. He announced that he in- 
tended preaching three sermons every Sunday, and one 
every evening, and was determined to convert the whole 
regiment. The lieutenant-colonel quietly remarked, "You 
will be devilish lucky if the regiment doesn't convert you 
before the end of the service." He evidently set the lieu- 
tenant-colonel down in his mind as a hardened sinner, who 
required the full effort of his official ministerial duty to 
bring him up to his Christian standard. The lieutenant- 
colonel then instructed him to visit the hospitals frequent- 
ly, take charge of the mail matter, and do his preaching 
when it would interfere as little as possible with the com- 
pany and regimental duties. The colonel and major ac- 
quiesced in this setting down, and the chaplain seemed to 
be glad to get away from officers who seemed to have so 
little respect for his official importance, or sympathy with 
his unbounded enthusiasm. 

The Chaplain was in the habit of saying in his sermons 
that he would both preach and fight, and that it would go 
hard with the Rebels when he met them. His bravery was 
put to a test at the battle of Fredericksburg. He appeared 
on the northern bank of the Rappahannock, mounted, 
and in full sight of Captain Fox, who was mortally 
wounded by a Rebel shell ; and as those shells came thick 



224 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

and fast, the horse wheeled suddenly to the rear, and gal- 
loped off at full speed, over hill and dale. Chaplain Gregg 
afterwards declared that he lost control of his horse, who 
ran away with him, so that the chaplain did not return to 
camp for a day or two after the regiment had returned 
from the battlefield. He was never heard to boast after- 
wards of what he would do with the "Rebels," but seemed 
to have made up his mind that he would live down the 
cowardly act of his horse; and at the battle of Chancel- 
lorsville, he gallantly shouldered a stretcher, and carried 
it to the relief of the Lieutenant-Colonel, and assisted in 
carrying off the wounded, and proved himself a useful, 
brave and patriotic citizen soldier. 



Captain Nissley, of Company "I," received a box of 
provisions from home, when he was recovering from an 
attack of camp fever, which notoriously creates an abnor- 
mal appetite. He ordered his cook to make him apple 
dumplings, and twenty were placed before him, not large, 
but yet they were all well formed dumplings. After eat- 
ing nineteen of them, he observed the cook give a longing, 
lingering look at the single dumpling left. He then very 
considerately inquired how many dumplings were made, 
and when the cook declared that every one had been placed 
before him, he generously directed the cook to remove the 
remaining dumpling, and eat it himself; but at the same 
time declared that he had capacity and appetite enough for 
the other one. 



While the regiment was at Camp Boas, and just before 
leaving for Camp Jennings, frequent complaints were 
made that some of the boys came into camp intoxicated. 
It was at first supposed that the girls and women who 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 225 

peddled pies and cakes, surreptitiously carried and sold 
liquor to the boys ; so they were closely watched, and their 
wares searched. Captain Greenawalt finally reported that 
he had discovered that some of the boys were getting 
liquor at the sutler's. Colonel Jennings quietly organized 
a raid upon the sutler, with Captain Greenawalt in com- 
mand. The captain was so fully determined on the suc- 
cess of his mission, that he gutted out the entire establish- 
ment, and the sutler was ordered to leave camp forthwith, 
which he did without hesitation, upon notice from Captain 
Greenawalt, that if he was seen in camp after daylight, 
that he must take the consequences of the severest pun- 
ishment. Captain Greenawalt was a very determined 
man, and when he set himself about to do a thing, he al- 
lowed nothing to prevent its accomplishment. 



The chaplain, like all Methodist preachers, was fond of 
a good meal, and did not scruple or hesitate to invite him- 
self whenever a favorable opportunity presented itself. 

One morning he looked into the dining tent at head- 
quarters, while the colonel and lieutenant-colonel were at 
breakfast. The colonel gave the lieutenant-colonel the 
wink, so that the chaplain was not invited to join them; 
but the lieutenant-colonel said, "Chaplain, I am awfully 
sorry that you were not here a little earlier to say grace." 
The chaplain replied, 'Tt is not too late to say grace yet." 
The colonel replied that he was never in the habit of hav- 
ing grace said after he commenced his meal. 

The chaplain looked at the breakfast, and his mouth 
evidently watered. He said, "You live well, what a nice 
breakfast you have." The colonel replied, "We always 
have a nice breakfast when we can manage to get nice 
things to eat." Then the chaplain commenced to enumer- 



226 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ate what was on the table. "You have roasted oysters, 
stewed chicken, flannel cakes, fried eggs on both sides, 
Saratoga chips, and grapes." The lieutenant-colonel said, 
"Chaplain, you are as good as a menu." All this time the 
colonel and lieutenant-colonel were doing full justice to 
their breakfast, and the chicken was disappearing rapidly, 
while the eggs were diminishing in quantity. The chap- 
lain said, "How do you manage to have flannel cakes?" 
The colonel said, "Jim bakes them." The colonel then 
asked how many flannel cakes there were, and the lieuten- 
ant-colonel said there were about a dozen. The colonel 
then said, "I can manage half or two-thirds of them easily 
enough," and yet the chaplain waited. He said, "The 
eggs are very nicely browned on both sides, and I like 
eggs fried in that way. I am very fond of roasted oysters, 
and I am passionately fond of stewed chicken; but oh, I 
am so fond of flannel cakes." All this time the two offi- 
cers were despatching their breakfast with avidity, and 
the chaplain remained until the plates were emptied, when 
he was invited to "return thanks ;" but the chaplain replied 
that as for himself, he saw nothing for which to return 
thanks, and then with a downcast look walked away, evi- 
dently very much disgruntled that he was not invited to a 
place at the board. 



Lieutenant Reed, of Company "I," always felt very 
grateful for his promotion, and after he was mustered out 
of the service, prepared a bowl of egg-nog, holding fully 
two gallons, which for safety was delivered at the office 
of Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, on Third street, Harris- 
burg, intended for the Colonel and the Lieutenant-Colonel. 
As the Lieutenant-Colonel was a total abstainer, the Colo- 
nel had the full benefit of the egg-nog which he very gen- 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 227 

erously distributed to some of his friends. The bowl re- 
mained in his office for a couple of days, and the Colonel 
said that he felt entirely secure in leaving this precious 
delicacy with him, as he knew that Colonel Alleman was 
so scrupulously abstemious, that he would not even taste 
egg-nog when it had but a bit of spirits in it. 



Colonel Jennings ordered a lofty guy-horse built close 
by the guard-house as a punishment to evil doers. The 
man who constructed the torture, while building it, laugh- 
ingly expressed a curiosity to see the first occupant. He 
was the first occupant, and the only man condemned to 
sit the buck. 



OCCURRENCES. 



(Taken from Major J. Rohrer's Diary.) 

September 29th, 1862. Detailed for picket duty, as offi- 
cer of the day. Went to Langley with Company "H," 
Captain Shott, 127th Pennsylvania Regiment; Company 
"F," Captain Cook, 127th New York Regiment; Com- 
pany "C," Captain Stokes, 40th Massachusetts ; J.W. Gun- 
ney, 127th New York. Pickets posted. Went over line 
about six miles, returned and had apple dumplings and 
short cakes for supper. Retired early (on the floor). Got 
up at 12.30 A. M., made grand rounds; returned at 4.30 
A. M. and laid down until 7 o'clock. 

Wednesday, October ist. Two prisoners brought in, 
one 1st Pennsylvania Cavalry (no horse), the other 4th 
New York Cavalry (with horse). Examined, both dis- 
charged. At 9.30 A. M. Lieutenant-Colonel Alle- 
man and Chaplain J. C. Gregg, 127th Regiment P. V. 
called. They wanted to see the country about here. 



228 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Chaplain Gregg lead, my horse ready, and we followed 
the chaplain. He rode down the cross roads from Hodges, 
about half a mile, then turned towards the Louinsville 
road, among briars and bushes, the chaplain well in the 
lead. Cavalry vidette appeared, saluted us, stated that 
Captain Page, of the loth New York Cavalry, was on the 
hill and would be glad to see us. Colonel Alleman re- 
plied that we were only going down the road and would 
stop on return. The orderly rode off, then captain and an- 
other vidette appeared. We halted on the road and wait- 
ed their arrival. We saluted each other, exchanged com- 
pliments and became acquainted. Captain invited us to 
go to Louinsville, headquarters of his cavalry. We start- 
ed for Louinsville. Chaplain Gregg, who was some dis- 
tance ahead, taking in what was going on among us five. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman said to Captain Page, "Yon- 
der is our chaplain ; send your men to arrest him." Cap- 
tain Page immediately dispatched his two videttes to ar- 
rest the chaplain. They started at full gallop, arrested the 
parson and ordered him to "surrender." He nervously 
said, "I will," watching us with a troubled look. As we 
approached him we all burst out laughing, and the secret 
was out. The chaplain rode ahead, stopped at a farm- 
house, Miss Crocker's. Only one girl there. Crossed the 
field, where there were three girls. Both families from 
Pennsylvania; former from Bradford county, latter from 
Blair county. After talking and joking about the Metho- 
dists (for Chaplain Gregg was a Methodist), Captain 
Page said that his parents were determined to make a 
Methodist preacher of him, but he was determined 
not to be one. He said his parents were of the old-time 
Methodists, who sing and pray all over the house. I no- 
ticed that the girls talked more to the Chaplain than to 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V, 229 

anyone else. One of them turned to me and said, "Your 
chaplain is very sociable." I said, "Do you know him?" 
"Oh, yes, he comes out here to Langley and has services 
in the church." I was astonished that he would venture 
outside of our picket line. After a good country dinner, 
made for the chaplain, we left for Louinsville, leaving the 
chaplain to make his "church arrangements." Met major 
of the loth New York Cavalry, and after taking a drink — 
of water, etc., we left for Langley, the chaplain joining us 
on our return. Returned 2 p. m. Lieutenant-Colonel 
Alleman and Chaplain Gregg (both bachelors), left for 
Camp Boas. After stewed chicken dinner, passed over 
picket line to the Potomac, on foot, tired of riding, accom- 
panied by Captain Shott and Lieutenant Schreiner. Cap- 
tain Page, loth New York Cavalry, with two orderlies, 
galloped to my headquarters, and wanting to know where 
our picket lines commenced. After a few words, a drink — 
of pump water, etc., they galloped away. Countersign, 
"Rome." Made the grand rounds at midnight, return- 
ing at 4 A. M. 

Saturday, October 4th. Reported to General Aber- 
crombie at 9 a. m. Took charge of the 400 men. All 
supplied with axes, pick-axes, and such tools as are neces- 
sary for the work. Two hundred men for digging out 
Atumps and clearing away brush, and two hundred for 
felling trees. Small trees cut off four feet from ground, 
large trees about two or three feet from ground. This is 
military rule and is done for the purpose of preventing 
cavalry and artillery passing through the line. Returned 
to camp at 4 p. m. and assisted raising a pole eighty 
feet long at Colonel Jennings' headquarters. 

Sunday, October 5th. Flag raising at 10 a. m. Regi- 
ment formed into hollow square, facing inward. Band 



230 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

played, after which Lieutenant-Colonel AUeman made a 
very appropriate speech. Then the band played "The Star 
Spangled Banner." The flag was raised to the breeze, 
and when at half-mast, three cheers were given. The chap- 
lain closed the ceremonies with a prayer. At i p. m. 
Colonel Jennings, Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman and my- 
self rode to Fort Alexandria in Maryland, several miles 
up the river. Paid our respects to the lieutenant-colonel 
and major, the colonel being absent, and returned to camp. 
Dress parade at 5 p. m. 

October 7th. As usual, I took my fatigue party to 
work. Six hundred men. Major Brua Cameron and 
wife, Captain Shott's wife, and several others visited 
camp. Mrs. Shott remained until next day. Major Cam- 
eron (paymaster) and wife left for Washington. After 
leaving camp, near Chain Bridge, Major Cameron sud- 
denly took sick. Our surgeon was on hand and so the 
Major was soon on his way rejoicing. Artists on the 
ground taking a photograph of Camp Boas. 

October 8th. Took my fatigue party to work' as usual. 
We have completed over three thousand yards of rifle pits. 
About 10 A. m. an elderly Virginian, in company with 
another man, probably his son, called on me. He said he 
was told that his wood about the house was to be cut 
down. I said, "Where is your house?" (W^e were then 
standing in Fort Marcy.) He pointed diagonally across 
the Leesburg pike, about three-fourths of a mile from 
where we stood. I told the man that I had not heard and 
know nothing about it. He said he had protection from 
General Wadsworth, of Washington; that he had three 
and one-half acres and would not take $3,000 for it. He 
evidently was dressed for the occasion, wearing a blue 
swallow-tail coat, high collar, and brass buttons. He 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 23I 

talked like the old stock of Virginians, as if he had his 
mouth full of mush. I told him I had no orders to cut 
his trees, but if I received such orders I would certainly 
cut them down, for we must obey orders. He left in dis- 
gust. In the evening the lieutenant of engineers, in 
charge of this work, called at my tent. He said, "Major, 
the general-in-chief of engineers was here today and said, 
'There is that wood still standing, which I three times or- 
dered cut down. Now, if it is not cut down by the next 
time I come here, I will know why.' " I told him about 
the old Virginian who called on me today, what was said, 
etc. "Well, you cut that wood down. Back of it is a high 
hill, clear, and if the enemy should get on that hill their 
artillery could command Fort Marcy and Fort Ethan Al- 
len." I replied, "All right, I will cut it down tomorrow." 
That evening Lieutenant Morgan and Lieutenant Sample, 
of Company "F," called on me, that company being de- 
tailed for tomorrow. Lieutenant Morgan said, "I heard 
that wood out there at the old Sesesh is to be cut down. 
Now, you give us charge of that job. I will take Company 
"F" and we will clean it up." Lieutenant Sample said, 
"We will do it right." 

October 9th. Next morning, as usual, took the men on 
fatigue duty. I gave the woodland in charge of Lieuten- 
ant Morgan, Lieutenant Sample and Company "F." Men 
all at work on pits, stumps, felling trees, etc. If I had the 
same men to work with every day, it would save much 
labor and time for me, but every morning I have different 
men from different regiments. About 11 o'clock all were 
at work. I looked across the country and saw trees fall- 
ing at a lively rate about my friend's house, and Lieuten- 
ant Sample was the progressive officer making things de- 
cidedly lively. I rode over (no fences anywhere along 



232 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the road). When I came near the house the old man was 
there, but walked away when he saw me, looking as sour 
as vinegar, for Lieutenant Sample felled a tree across the 
corner of his house, and spoiled the coveted shade for 
many years to come. 

October loth. On fatigue duty, as usual. Only 350 
men today. Fortieth Massachusetts Regiment struck 
tents and left for Miner's Hill. Cut heavy oak timber 
around the old man's house. The women cried; no mat- 
ter, the orders must be obeyed. I have not been well for 
some days. Had charge of this fatigue party for two 
weeks, until the i8th of October, when I was too sick for 
duty. I reported to General Abercrombie and asked to be 
relieved until I get better; that I was too sick to work. 
He said, "You are relieved until you get better, then re- 
port." But I never reported. When I got better the regi- 
ment was somewhere else. I had much experience in 
building rifle pits. A rifle pit is dug two feet deep and 
twenty inches wide, the earth being thrown on a bank fac- 
ing the enemy. This bank is called the parapet. From the 
bottom of the ditch to the top of the parapet is three feet 
eight inches, so that the rifle-men can rest on their knees 
and fire at the enemy over the parapet. The back of ditch 
is sloped from bottom up, so the men can lie back to load 
their guns. A rifle pit may be dug on level ground, but 
better on high ground, the slope of a hill, or on the sum- 
mit of high ground. If on the side of a hill, drains can be 
made to drain out the water, for it is very unpleasant, 
after a rain, to be in a pit of water a foot deep. How 
many hundreds of acres of timber were cut down I never 
estimated. But what a sight ! So much timber cut down, 
and all the stumps, from three to four feet high, standing 
long after the timber was removed ! 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 233 

CAMP FIRES. 



BY CAPTAN JAMES B. KEENE. 

Whether on the march, in camp, or on picket, the "camp 
fire" was the "corner grocery," or the "club" of home Hfe, 
where the comrades would meet, gossip and enjoy them- 
selves, as soldiers only, know how to accommodate them- 
selves to circumstances. 

They would cluster around the camp fire, and discuss 
the problems of the day, the mistakes of the past, and the 
hopes of the future. They would sing old songs, and 
were particularly happy when they could find new songs 
in which to indulge their musical tastes. They would 
enter at times into heated discussion, and state their opin- 
ions freely, regarding the best methods of planning and 
executing army movements to bring about the best re- 
sults. They were very free in condemning the mistakes 
of superior officers, and never scrupled to state, that if 
they had occupied those superior posts of duty, many dis- 
asters might have been averted, and many victories have 
taken the place of inglorious defeat. At times, the more 
forcible debaters grew positively eloquent, and displayed 
more than ordinary wisdom and tact, which would have 
done credit to those higher in authority. 

It should be borne in mind, that most of the men who 
carried muskets during the late Civil War, were men of 
superior intelligence, who left the busy walks of life to 
discharge a duty which they owed to their government, 
and involved the life of a great nation ; and they did it at 
the expense of everything that was near and dear to them 
in life. Many of those comrades were well educated, and 
the rank and file bristled with those whose influence in the 
P 



234 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

peaceful avocations of life was only excelled by their 
ability. These comrades could be heard discussing their 
home environments, and going minutely into the details of 
their past experience; laying out plans for the future, 
swapping stories, smoking pipes, or boiling their cup of 
coffee. Such were some of the scenes in active service 
around the camp fires at the front, when the boys were 
young. Though years have passed, the "camp fire" con- 
tinues to burn sanctified by. all the hallowed memories of 
those never-to-be-forgotten days which "tried men's 
souls," surrounded by the survivors, though many of 
them are growing old and gray ; but age has no tendency 
to diminish the enjoyment of these camp fires, where they 
can recall the past, and live over the active and thrilling 
life in the early sixties. Comrades are passionately fond 
of relating and hearing the old, old stories ; and singing 
the old, old songs, which used to enthuse and brace them 
up on their weary marches, and when time hung heavily 
upon them while in camp, and they felt blue on thinking 
of the dear ones they left behind them. 

Time mellows the acerbity of youthful indiscretions, 
and cools the passions of younger days ; so the comrades 
meet, forgetful of their past differences, and remember 
only the bright side of army life, and the pleasant company 
and regimental associations when they daily answered 
roll-call. 



FORLORN HOPE. 



During the bombardment of Fredericksburg, December 
nth, 1862, a hurry call was made on the 3rd Brigade of 
the 2nd Division of the 2nd Army Corps for "vplunteers" 



127TII REGIMENT, P. V. 235 

to man pontoons to cross the Rappahannock and silence 
sharpshooters who were firing upon the pontoniers and 
preventing the completion of the pontoon bridge. 

If the call had been made on the 127th Regiment, they 
would probably have volunteered to a man ; but it ended 
with the 7th Michigan Cavalry of the brigade, so that 
only a few men from the regiment were permitted, 
through their persistency, to join in the "forlorn hope." 
Of these volunteers were three men of Company "D," 
Henry Bidding, John Lentz and Elias Leitzel — the two 
latter of whom where killed in battle two days later. These 
brave men. accompanied by a few others of the regiment, 
were led by the gallant Porter Buchanan, of Company 
"F," who, having been successful in their heroic mission, 
returned and were wildly cheered by the whole brigade. 
Henry Bidding secured a bouquet of artificial flowers in 
the raid on Fredericksburg, and presented it to Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Alleman, who rode along the lines exhibiting 
it as a trophy of the heroism of those brave boys who vol- 
unteered and accomplished the silencing of the Mississippi 
sharpshooters, to inspire their fellow comrades in like acts 
of braverv. 



GRATITUDE. 



On the first night that Colonel Jennings, as provost 
marshal, and Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman in command of 
the regiment, occupied a mansion on Caroline street, in 
the city of Fredericksburg, they were quietly enjoying a 
much needed sleep, occupying sofas in the parlor, which 
was on the first floor. Shortly after midnight a patrol 
brought in an old man, with a young girl clinging to his 



236 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

arm. The guard awakened Colonel Jennings, and the 
case was stated to him. The noise awakened Colonel Al- 
leman, who listened attentively to the charge, and noted 
the distress of the young girl. Either his judgment, that 
the case had no merit, or a sympathy for the young lady 
in distress, prompting him, he volunteered to defend the 
old gentleman, and did so successfully, inducing the pro- 
vost marshal to discharge him. The young lady, who was 
very comely in appearance, and refined in manners, simply 
gave Colonel Alleman a cold slight bow, and left the par- 
lor, holding on to the arm of her father. Colonel Jen- 
nings remarked the coldness and apparent ingratitude of 
the young lady, and said, "Colonel Alleman, you got scant 
courtesy for your success, and evidently made no impres- 
sion upon the young lady," laughing at the same time; 
but Colonel Alleman made no response, beyond saying 
that he simply did his duty, and he wanted no thanks. 
When the discharged prisoner passed the guard, the 
young lady inquired the name of the provost marshal and 
the officer who spoke in her father's defence. Their names 
and rank were noted, and the party passed on. The offi- 
cers were worn out, and almost immediately fell asleep. 
Early in the morning, probably an hour before daylight, 
a young slave brought a note to headquarters with in- 
structions to deliver it to Colonel Alleman "in person." 
The note was from the young iady, daughter of the dis- 
charged prisoner, inviting Colonel Alleman to breakfast 
that morning, with request to bring with him Colonel Jen- 
nings, provost marshal. After reading the note, he handed 
it to Colonel Jennings, who, reading it said, "What do you 
intend doing?" Colonel Alleman replied, "I move that we 
accept the invitation." To which Colonel Jennings re- 
plied, "Agreed;" but how to get there was the question. 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 237 

The young slave replied, "Misses' compliments, I am to 
show you the way to the house." Both officers followed 
the slave, who took them to a rather pretentious house, 
which had been severely damaged by the Federal shells 
during the bombardment, several of them passing through 
the stone walls, causing great disorder; and they learned, 
on presenting themselves, that the family had taken re- 
fuge, during the bombardment, in the cellar of the build- 
ing. The young lady hostess received the officers in a 
very cold but dignified manner, and stated that she wanted 
to show her gratitude for voluntary kindness rendered; 
and while she was unable to provide a suitable breakfast, 
she ordered one prepared, which was the best that the 
house could afford — at the time. It was a plain break- 
fast, and the hostess did not preside at the table ; but dis- 
missed the servant, and stated that she would wait upon 
her guests, which she did with infinite grace, coupled how- 
ever, with a very great deal of haughtiness. Her two sis- 
ters were present; but she did not introduce the officers 
to them. After they finished their breakfast, they were 
very warm in their praise and thanks for the tendered hos- 
pitality; and each extended his hand, and the young lady 
said, "Gentlemen, I will be very glad to have you call and 
see me when you come to Fredericksburg again ; but I 
tell you frankly, that I hope you will never be able to en- 
ter Fredericksburg again." The officers bowed them- 
selves out, the young slave guided them back to their 
headquarters, which they reached before daylight. 

In a few hours afterwards they were in the thick of 
the battle; and all recollection of this little episode was 
completely knocked out of their memories. 

On the 3rd of May following, Colonel AUeman, suffer- 
ing severely from fractured ribs, from a wound received 



238 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

in battle that day, was carried back from the battlefield to 
the city, and a vacant cottage was seized, where he was 
made as comfortable as possible, refusing to be taken to a 
hospital, or carried across the river. During the after- 
noon, while seated in an arm chair on the front stoop, and 
suffering intense pain, he glanced diagonally across the 
street, and noticed a fine stone building, which was evi- 
dently the home of well-to-do people. He noticed persons 
peering through the slats from the parlor windows, and 
afterwards an old gentleman came out of the house, 
crossed the street, bowed to him, and inquired whether he 
had the honor of addressing "Colonel Allen." Colonel 
Alleman in his agony replied, "That is not my name." He 
bowed himself away, returned to the house, and noticed 
again the moving of slats, and an apparent conference. 
After a little while the old gentleman reappeared, and 
stated that he was possibly mistaken in the name, but that 
his daughters thought that they recognized his face as the 
same gentleman whom his elder daughter entertained at 
breakfast on the morning of the great battle. The recol- 
lection of the circumstance immediately flashed across his 
mind, and he admitted that he and Colonel Jennings were 
entertained by a young lady ; but said he did not recollect 
the name of his hostess. The old gentleman then stated 
that he was the prisoner, and that through the kind inter- 
vention of Colonel Alleman he had been discharged. He 
then bowed across the street, the shades were drawn up, 
and three young ladies stood at the windows and bowed 
to him. He reciprocated the kind recognition with a mil- 
itary salute, and the old gentleman asked to be excused 
for a moment, and returned to the house. In a very few 
minutes he came back with a message of compliments 
from his daughter, and requested that he permit himself 



t27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 239 

to be carried over to the house and made their guest. This 
he decHned with thanks, stating that he was made as com- 
fortable as possible under the care of his orderly, and 
servant, and in charge of his surgeon; but thanked him 
very kindly for their generous offer of hospitality. The 
old gentleman then returned, and asked permission to 
have some delicacies brought over, which would be pre- 
pared by his daughter, which he also declined ; but finally 
agreed that if he felt well enough on the following day, 
to be carried over to the house, that he would be only too 
pleased to dine with them. The next morning at early 
dawn he was carried out again on the stoop. In the mean- 
time his horse was saddled and bridled, and brought up to 
his quarters by his orderly, who was also mounted. In 
looking down the street, he observed the glitter of mus- 
kets, to which he called the attention of his orderly, and 
inquired whether he could distinguish whether they were 
friends or foes? He however satisfied himself that they 
were Confederates, and requested to be placed upon his 
horse at once, ordering his orderly to mount, and servant 
to follow him ; and, although suffering great pain, he put 
spurs to his horse, and with the enemy only two squares 
away, galloped at full speed down the street, and down 
upon the pontoon bridge, with his orderly and servant, 
and finding the last of the 127th Regiment already upon 
the pontoon bridge before him, notified them that the 
enemy were pursuing them, ordered the cables to be cut ; 
and just then a dense fog enveloped them, so that it was 
impossible to recognize anything a few feet distant. The 
pontoon floated down the river, with the tide, and the 
whole party were safely landed on the northern bank of 
the Rappahannock. When the fog dispelled, great forces 
of the enemy were seen on the south side of the Rappahan- 



240 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

nock, looking with apparent amazement at the escape of 
the invaders. The hasty exit prevented the fulfiHment of 
the engagement; saved his capture, and the Lieutenant- 
Colonel never having visited the city of Fredericksburg 
afterwards, greatly to his regret, was unable to pay his 
respects to the young ladies, who showed him such 
marked evidences of appreciated gratitude. 



OBEDIENCE TO ORDERS. 



We guarded Chain Bridge, which was considered an 
important post, as travel west and south had to pass over 
it into Virginia. On one occasion General Abercrombie, 
in command of our division, accompanied by several gen- 
tlemen, wanted to cross Chain Bridge tO' Washington, 
without a pass. The orders were imperative that no one 
should be allowed to pass over the bridge unless they had 
a pass from the proper officer. The General said, "Don't 
you know your General?" The sergeant said, "We don't 
know any one. General or no General, unless he has a 
pass." "Is it possible that I must go back and get a pass 
from my adjutant?" He did go back about a mile, and 
when he returned with his adjutant's pass he was allowed 
to cross the bridge. None of the party wore uniforms. 
This evidence of faithful obedience to orders brought the 
Regiment up to standard reputation. Full confidence was 
placed in us. We found out afterwards that troops which 
had a good record were always selected for dangerous 
and important work. They, and only regiments with good 
records are selected to open the battle; and cover the re- 
treat ; and covering a retreat is of the greatest importance 
and sometimes more dangerous even than opening the 
fight. 



I2/'TH REGIMENT, P. V. 24l 

WHAT IS CAMP LIFE? 



BY MAJOR J. ROHRER. 

It is generally supposed by those who never had any 
practical experience in a regimental camp, in active ser- 
vice, that the soldier has about nothing to do but lie about 
in his tent and kill time. It is well to disabuse the minds 
of those who have had no active camp experience. An 
explanation will show what a soldier must do. A sol- 
dier's life is a busy one, often busy day and night, without 
interruption. 

First, at early dawn, in camp, the reveille is sounded by 
the drum major and the fife major. This is to awaken 
the regiment, and is the call for duty. At the termination 
of the reveille, the men fall in company line, and the or- 
derly sergeant of each company calls the roll and reports 
to the adjutant of the regiment, the number answering 
the roll call; absentees marked, and also those on detail 
duty, such as picket or fatigue duty, sick in quarters, etc. 
From these reports the adjutant makes out a roster of the 
regiment, showing the number of men on active duty, the 
number sick in camp or hospital, and the number on picket 
or fatigue duty. The adjutant makes up his report from 
the company reports, which is sent to headquarters. 

After breakfast, the next in order is guard mount. 
Every regiment has a guard posted outside of camp, who 
are relieved every two hours. The officer of the day is de- 
tailed the night previous, and in rank is a captain or lieu- 
tenant commanding a company. He has charge of the 
camp until relieved next morning. The adjutant selects 
a certain number of men from each company, for guard 
mount, who appear at the call of the drum and fife. They 



242 Memorial history 

stand up in line, are inspected, their gxms examined, and 
regular guard mount follows. The adjutant then turns 
the guard over to the officer of the day, and they are 
marched to their posts, relieving those on duty. The re- 
lieved fall in the rear of line. The guards are on continu- 
ous duty until relieved next morning. 

Next in order is picket and fatigue duty. Notice re- 
ceived by the Colonel the day previous : "One hundred and 
twenty men for picket or fatigue duty at 8 a. m. to- 
morrow;" or it may be two companies, or more; some- 
times even a regiment, with all of the officers. The adju- 
tant is notified, the colonel handing the notice to him, 
which is recorded in a book kept for that purpose. The 
adjutant then serves notice on each captain to detail, say, 
fourteen men from each company, for picket or fatigue 
duty, 8 A. M. tomorrow. The orderly sergeant se- 
lects the detail in order of his muster roll. At the call of 
the drum and fife major, the pickets form into line and are 
inspected by the adjutant; and passing inspection, they 
are marched off by the captain and lieutenants — for every 
detail must have some commissioned officers to take the 
command — two sergeants, four or more corporals, similar 
to an organized company. At 8 a. m. the detail re- 
ports at the place designated, and are formed into line, 
with about six hundred from other regiments. A regular 
guard mount then takes place. The general officer of 
pickets, and commandant of the line, lead the men to their 
posts. The General officer is in chief command, and goes 
over the line twice in day time, and once after mid-night. 
The commandant goes over the line every two hours, day 
and night. This keeps the line in good order. Pickets 
change every two hours. All pickets are given the pass- 
word, or countersign, and no one can pass through the 



127TH REGIMENT. P. V. 24^ 

line without the countersign. The General officer, and 
commandant are halted just the same as any other man. 
When the word "Halt!" is given, the command must be 
obeyed at once ; for the picket has a right to shoot. Then 
you hear the words, "Who comes there ?" The answer by 
the officer is, "Grand Rounds." The picket replies, "Ad- 
vance, Grand Rounds, and give the countersign." The of- 
ficer, (mounted), leans forward and gives the word over 
the point of the bayonet. The word found correct, the 
officer goes on to the next post ; and so witii the whole line. 
Three men form a post, thirty to fifty yards apart, ac- 
cording to the topography of the country. It is risky to 
lean over the point of a bayonet, with the loaded gtm in the 
hands of a careless soldier, for some of uiem cock their 
guns at the approach of any one. After the pickets and 
fatigue detail have gone, and the camp is properly guard- 
ed, the officer of the day calls on the adjutant for men for 
police duty. A certain number are detailed, say five or 
ten from each company, whose duty it is to police the 
company streets and camp, remove all garbage, look after 
the sinks, and cleanse the grounds and surroundings. If 
wood is needed, another detail is made to go to the woods 
with the wagons and cut and haul it in ; each company be- 
ing supplied with axes and hatchets. If roads need fixing, 
or corduroy roads are to be built, or repaired, men are de- 
tailed for that purpose. Details are made to dig rifle 
pits, build fortifications, fell trees, make roads, cut wood, 
etc. All this is done l)y the soldier, and it is doue without 
a murmur, although some of the men never had a shovel 
or axe in their hands at home. Those who do guard duty 
during the day and night are exempt from picket duty, or 
any manual labor or other duty during the following day, 
except company or regimental drill and dress parade. 



244 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Every man must clean his gun and keep it clean, both in- 
side and outside, ready for inspection. 

Company drill at lo a. m. Dinner 12 to i 
o'clock. Battalion drill at 2 p. m. Dress parade at 

5 p. M. Supper at 6 o'clock. Taps at 8 p. m. Brig- 
ade drill once a week, and inspection and reviews when 
the weather is fair — the last two, often, even the day be- 
fore going into action. Previous to the opening of a 
campaign, orders come from headquarters, "Are your 
men supplied with knapsacks? Draw by requisition." 
Next day another inquiry comes, "Do your men need 
clothing? If so, draw at once." Next, "Draw shoes if in 
want." The last was, "Are your men in want of shoe 
strings? Draw at once." This shows how carefully 
every detail is watched, so that the army can march at 
a moment's notice. The next order : "Three days' cooked 
rations in haversack, and five days' in knapsack, with 
sixty rounds of cartridges." The last order, "Move at 

6 A. M. tomorrow." 

Pontoon boats, pontoon bridges, and pontoon wagons 
are an absolute necessity to a marching army. A pontoon 
boat is about eighteen or twenty feet long, five feet six 
inches wide, with sides two feet high ; made like a scow, 
or flat boat. These boats are carried on a wagon for that 
purpose, with six horses or mules hitched to each wagon. 
To make a bridge, the boats are put into the river, an- 
chored against the current of the stream, at regular dis- 
tance apart. Long stringers of wood are laid from one boat 
to another, and lashed fast, so as not to move, probably 
five or six making the width of the bridge. When the 
stringers are laid, the men carry the planks or boards, 
whichever are used, and place them across the stringers. 
If boards are used, two layers are placed. As fast as the 




COMKADE GEORSE D. RISE. 

Cn. ■•K.' ii:tiii Ur-iniriir, r. v. 

Uc^iiiiculMl Ilislni-iaii. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 245 

engineers put down and anchor the boats, the stringers 
are placed, and the boards are put down, and when the 
last boat is fastened to the opposite shore and stringers 
and plank, and securely cabled, the bridge is done and 
ready for use. 



MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS A WOUNDED 
SOLDIER. 



BY PRIVATE GEORGE D. RISE, COMPANY E, I27TH REGIMENT, 
PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS. 

As a proud member of our beloved company, my daily 
life was uneventful, except for the various duties of camp 
life, drill, guard duty, picket duty, parades, etc., until the 
memorable battle of Fredericksburg. December nth, at 
day-break, our regiment reached the banks of the Rappa- 
hannock River, at the Lacy House, directly opposite the 
upper end of the town of Fredericksburg, having made 
most of the march from the camp at Falmouth on the 
double-quick. We had expected to be ordered into imme- 
diate action, but on our arrival, the engineers who were 
building the pontoon bridge had been interrupted, when 
only half way across with their work, by fierce and effec- 
tive rifle firing from sharpshooters concealed in the houses 
on the opposite side, and in rifle pits along the river bank. 
Finding it useless to continue sending men down to the 
bridge to their certain death. General Burnside, who was 
on his horse close by us, ordered a bombardment of the 
town and the heights beyond. For over eight hours, until 
nearly four o'clock in the afternoon, there was witnessed 
one of the most magnificent spectacles of modern times — 
a bombardment by 140 cannon, with occasional replies b> 



246 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the enemy. We, as spectators and supporters of some of 
the batteries, would sometimes crowd up pretty close to 
the bank of the river, but shots from the sharpshooters 
opposite would cause us to "skedaddle" to safer quarters 
without orders. These efforts also proved useless in ac- 
complishing anything towards the completion of the 
bridge, and about 3 o'clock p. m. General Bumside 
called for volunteers to cross in boats, as a "forlorn 
hope," and drive the sharpshooters from the immediate 
vicinity. Nearly our entire brigade volunteered ; of whom 
but about 400 men were selected from the 7th Michigan, 
19th and 20th Massachusetts, including about a score of 
the 127th Regiment. In a few minutes they slid the boats 
down into the water, jumped in, rowed across, and in ten 
minutes most desperate fighting with Barksdale's sharp- 
shooters, drove the enemy away from the banks of the 
river, and brought back over fifty prisoners — hardly two 
of whom were dressed alike — ragged and desperate look- 
ing. In less than an hour after their return, our ponton- 
iers had the bridge completed, and our brigade had the 
honor of being the first to cross. The old regiments of the 
brigade went right up into the town, and with desperate 
fighting drove the enemy out of the houses, assisted by 
our regiment, which was afterwards placed in reserve on 
the bank of the river, protected by the rising ground from 
the effects of the firing. While this fighting was going 
on, several of the Michigan soldiers came running down 
the street, calling, "For God's sake. Colonel Hall, send us 
up some more men ; they have killed all our men." Some 
of the 127th Regiment dashed up into the fight without 
orders. I had started to go along with Simeon Guilford, 
when we saw a wild-eyed soldier come running down the 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 247 

hill directly towards us, head thrown back, and stagger- 
ing, fell right at our feet. We picked him up at once, but 
he was stone dead, and our surgeon, who arrived at the 
moment, insisted that the man had been dead while he was 
still running. He had been shot in the arm, and was run- 
ning down the hill towards us for assistance, when an- 
other shot struck him in the spinal column, and the doctor 
said that the muscular action carried him to us. At 
II o'clock that night we marched up into the town, 
and were put on guard duty, to stop the looting which 
was already going on. We had half of the city, and the 
rebels had the other half. I was on guard, at the comer of 
two streets, with some members of Company "H," at the 
comer next beyond me. About midnight I saw a body of 
men come from the opposite direction towards those of 
Company "H," and then all went back together. I did 
not know, however, until we were relieved, that the Com- 
pany "H" men had been captured by the rebels from the 
next street. 

All day Friday we were in line of battle on Caroline 
street, together with four other lines of battle, the entire 
width of the street being occupied with troops, ours being 
on the southern pavement. The older troops, knowing 
that it was our first experience under fire, commenced 
chafifing us, saying that we would- dodge when the shells 
commenced to fly. Well, during the morning, and all 
day, the rebel shells did fly — not at us — but over us, to- 
wards the river, where our troops were still crossing. 
Sometimes the shell would seem to come in a direct line 
towards us, and then ensued the amusing spectacle of see- 
ing every man along the entire lines of battle look up into 
the air, and, as the shell seemed to draw nearer and nearer, 
he would draw back, duck his head, and as the shell pass- 



248 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ed on, he would again straighten up, and with an air of 
relief, look after the faint line which the missile seemed 
to leave in the air. There was no more chaffing, as all, 
old and new men, were in the same boat. Night came 
without any further developments. On Saturday morn- 
ing, December 13th, about nine o'clock, we heard rifle fir- 
ing, and knew that the great battle was on. We again 
formed in line of battle on Caroline street, and about noon 
were ordered into action. We marched down Caroline 
street, to Hanover street, and there we all threw our 
blankets, overcoats and knapsacks in a heap on the pave- 
ment, then marched out Hanover street. As we went out 
this street, the shot and shell came thick and fast, but 
there was no more dodging. Every man seemed to be 
anxious to get up to the front. After going two blocks, 
we were halted to allow some troops to cross a street di- 
agonal to Hanover. While we halted. Captain Greena- 
walt leaned against a low fence between two houses at the 
right of the street, and a shell came screaming, and struck 
between the two houses, shattering both walls. Captain 
Greenawalt did not even change his position, but calmly 
turned his head to look at the result. We then continued 
our march out the Telegraph Road, crossed the canal 
or mill ditch as well as we could, climbed a board fence, 
and formed in line on the second ridge of Marie's Hill. 
The line was formed as for dress parade, and Colonel Jen- 
nings was just getting ready to give order to charge, 
when I seemed to feel a shell coming right towards me. 
I "ducked" and it passed over my head, the wind of it 
nearly blowing off my cap. This shell burst just back 
of me, and an iron canister shot from it struck me in the 
center of the back of the fleshy part of the right thigh. 
It was Shrapnell shell, usually loaded with about seventy 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 249 

such balls. I did not, for a moment, know that I had been 
hit, although the ball had gone nearly through the leg to 
the front, and through the muscles. An order came, im- 
mediately, to march, and as I tried to step forward with 
the rest of the men, my leg seemed paralyzed and fastened 
to the ground. The blood rushed down my leg in a stream 
and filled my shoe. I saw the boys about to leave me. I 
dropped my rifle, clasped my hands to my thigh to stop the 
blood, and yelled, "I am hit." Several of the men ran 
back to me, but Samuel S. Shirk, of our company reached 
me first, and started to take me off the field. I did not fall 
and had no pain, but was already weak from the great loss 
of blood. Comrade Shirk took my arm, and we slowly 
made our way back, getting over the ditch with some diffi- 
culty. After we had got back to the Telegraph Road, ana 
over the little bridge, we heard cheering, and stopped to 
look back. It was our splendid regiment going up the hill 
towards the stone wall. As we stood there, a small piece 
of shell passed through my coat, and we thought it time to 
go. I had been unable to pick up and take along my rifle, 
and as we went back into the city, I became very thirsty, 
I presume from the loss of blood, and begged water from 
soldiers with canteens every few minutes. Arriving in 
Caroline street, I was taken into a two-story brick house, 
evidently a school house, which had been selected as a hos- 
pital for our wounded. We found gathered there the 
members of the band of our regiment, who took my en- 
trance as the signal, and they all started for the field to 
help bring back the wounded. Dr. Horner, our assistant 
surgeon, took me in charge, and wanted me to wait for 
Dr. Reily, the surgeon, to extract the ball. I insisted on 
immediate action, and Dr. Horner said he would do it if 
I would assume the responsibility. I said, "Go ahead/' 

q 



250 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Stripped and laid down on the floor, a dozen standing 
around. The doctor made a cut an inch deep and two 
inches long on the front of the thigh, and tried to reach 
the ball, but without success. He then made a deeper cut, 
and caught the ball with the forceps, but it slipped off for 
him. until the third trial. It proved to be an iron ball, 
which I still have in my possession. During the operation 
the men about me winced and groaned, but I did not have 
a particle of pain, as the flesh seemed to have been dead- 
ened by the shock of the impact. Xo anaesthetic was used. 
After the wound was dressed. I was put on the floor in the 
front room. Comrade Shirk again went to the assistance of 
others, and to join the regiment. In the evening the regi- 
ment returned to its position in Caroline street: just in 
front of this building, they baked some flap-jacks over the 
gutter, gave me some, and they tasted very good. I laid 
there without any further attention until Monday after- 
noon, when my cousin. Jacob L. Rise, also a member of 
Company "E." came in and said we had to be moved across 
the river, as the rebels were going to shell the city. He and 
Jacob Reinoehl, of Company "K,** lifted me to my feet. 
and with my anus around their necks, we made our way 
down to the river, across the pontoon bridge, and up the 
bank. As we were crossing, the rebels commenced shell- 
ing us at a very lively rate." although the hospital flag was 
up. The enemy afterwards made the excuse that they 
were shelling some of our cavalry north of the river bank. 
In this way we made our way for nearly two miles. Com- 
rades Jacob Rise and Reinoehl showing great considera- 
tion in staying with me. I was laid down in a woods, and 
a shelter tent put up for me and for John K. Seltzer, who 
was wounded in the hand, and the two comrades went 
back to help others across the river. From that time I 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 25 1 

was unable to get up again, and during the night a ter- 
rible storm arose, blowing away our shelter tent, and I 
was nearly drowned in the water of the storm, until Com- 
rade Seltzer pulled me to a little higher ground. The next 
morning I was picked up by strangers, put on a stretcher, 
and carried into a hospital tent, and my wet clothes left to 
dry on me. 

On Wednesday afternoon I was carried on a stretcher 
from the hospital tent to Falmouth Station — only a plat- 
form without any buildings. While I was carried down, we 
passed a hospital tent where amputations were going on, 
and a pile of arms and legs was outside of it about four 
feet high, and even as I was carried past, a leg was thrown 
out on the pile which did not seem to be so badly shattered 
as to necessitate amputation. It was 2 o'clock in the 
afternoon when I was laid on the platform, bitterly cold, 
December i6th, and a very cold wind blowing. As I was 
brought there a freight train was just ready to leave, and 
all the wounded who could help themselves got on board, 
while a few of us helpless ones were left lying there in that 
bitter cold for five long hours, until seven o'clock, before 
the next freight train came. By that time I was frozen 
blue, unable to speak or move anything except my eyes. 
Fortunately the conductor happened to be on the car which 
stopped closest to me. and noticed my condition. That 
car was loaded with hay, and he had it hurriedly un- 
loaded, with the help of wounded men, leaving a few 
inches of hay in the bottom of the car, they had me care- 
fully carried in and ordered some of the men to lie close 
up to me and "thaw me out." We started at eleven o'clock 
for Acquia Creek, reaching there after midnight. Two 
men pulled me to the door of the car, made a seat of their 
hands, and carried me to the ferry boat, reaching Wash- 



252 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

ington early next morning, and placed me in an ambu- 
lance. Another wounded soldier in the same ambulance 
happened to be Jerome Strohm, also a Lebanon boy, 
wounded in the foot. We were taken to Trinity church, 
in Georgetown, D. C, which had been turned into a hos- 
pital, by building a floor over the seats, and each aisle of 
ten cots was divided into two wards. I was placed in the 
middle bed of the worst ward of cases. I saw the others 
all die, one having cut his knee with an axe, and contracted 
gangrene, extending through his whole leg. He died 
Christmas morning. The next died that night, the second 
bed left of me. He had been shot in the middle of the 
back by a piece of shell, and as he lay with his back to- 
wards me, I saw his life-blood stream out in great jets. 
The man on the right of me had his foot taken off, gan- 
grene developed, and he died next morning. The second 
on the right had his foot amputated, gangrene showed 
slightly, amputation again at the knee, slight signs of 
gangrene again in the stump, a third amputation at the 
thigh, and death on the operating table. I was then alone 
in my ward, except that Bob Strohm and other wounded 
men would come and help to spend the time pleasantly. 
I had a good nurse, a Miss Mitchell, who read to me and 
furnished me many delicacies. I was getting along nicely 
until December 27th, when the nurse lost my sponge, went 
for a new one, which happened to be a washed one. That 
day I got gangrene, the wound sloughed open the arteries, 
and that night I had two severe bleeding spells, the sec- 
ond of which had to be stopped by putting a roll of band- 
age over the artery, then a strap and buckle tight around 
the leg, and a screw above the roll, fastening it down to 
the artery. The next day gangrene developed, and by the 
28th it had greatly extended, my right side, from the knee 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 253 

to the ribs being entirely black. The surgeon then de- 
cided on amputation, but I argued with them that I was al- 
ready so weak from loss of blood that I could not stand 
an operation ; that the gangrene being way up to my ribs, 
an amputation at the hip would be sure death. I was con- 
vinced that they wanted to dissect me, as otherwise I was 
healthy. I had written to my mother, and expected her 
soon. Bob Strohm and Paul Knox came up to see what 
was the matter, and after I explained to them, and showed 
them my condition, Paul Knox, a New York soldier, 
brought two revolvers, and threatened to shoot any one 
who would touch me before my mother came. The nurses 
were taken away from me, and these two brave fellows 
took care of me until my mother came, two days after. 
By that time the gangrene was reduced, and was confined 
only to the inside of the thigh, a piece of flesh sloughing 
out an inch deep, and the size of a whol^^ hand, leaving the 
muscles and nerves exposed. This commenced healing 
again in a few days. When I was near death, I had asked 
Strohm not to allow the negro attendants to wait for me, 
to die, at the foot of my bed, to carry me out to the dead- 
house, as they did for the others. 

In the beginning of January this hospital was closed, 
and we were removed to Columbia College Plospital, 
where the doctors took half of our rations and sold them, 
the nurses paid us no attention, and my mother went out 
to buy food for me and some others. On the 15th of Jan- 
uary, 1863, I was strapped down on a board, and after a 
number of trials and tribulations, finally got to Harris- 
burg — my bed across the tops of the car seats. There were 
no passenger cars then on Sundays, but Mr. Artemus Wil- 
helm, who met us in Washington, had a passenger car at- 
tached to the freight train, and arrived in Lebanon just as 



254 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Sunday-schools were dismissing. ]\Ien insisted on carry- 
ing my bed on their shoulders, and in this way I was taken 
home, followed by great crowds of people anxious to hear 
from their own boys. 

On April 9th I was ordered to rejoin my regiment, but 
I w'as still on crutches, and very weak. I went to Harris- 
burg to report myself to the provost marshal, who at once 
g-ave me my discharge. I went to Harrisburg again to 
meet Company "E," when it returned from the service, re- 
gretting that I had not been able to continue with them 
and be mustered out with them. 



INCIDENTS OF CAMP LIFE. 

(From Major Rohrer's Diary.) 

The Fredericksburg campaign was not a success, but 
proved a failure. Major-General Bumside was not dis- 
heartened at the result, but made haste to replenish, and 
put the Army of the Potomac on solid war footing. Or- 
ders received constantly, and reports sent to headquarters 
daily. On the 20th of January, 1863, the Left Grand Di- 
vision (General Franklin) commenced to move to tne 
right, and at sunset the rear of his division rested about 
half a mile to our right, and rear of the 127th Regiment. 
Raining ! raining ! General Bumside's plan of action was 
to move up the Rappahannock some miles, cross the river, 
and get in General Lee's rear, then Lee would evacuate 
Fredericksburg (his stronghold, or Gibraltar), and come 
out of the trenches and fight another battle. But the ele- 
ments were against Bumside; rain and cold. Our divi- 
sion received orders to be ready, with three days' cooked 
rations in haversacks, to march early in the morning. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 255 

January 21st. Troops moving slowly. Mud! mud! 
The Center Grand Division, General Joe Hooker, com- 
menced to move; in the morning the Right Grand Divi- 
sion would move ; but the pontoons, artillery and wagons 
were swamped in the mud. Such a sight I never beheld. 
January 23rd. Troops coming back; no let up in the 
fall of rain. We did not move. Lucky boys we were! 
Colonel Jennings sent Cyrus McLaughlin, his orderly, for 
my horse. He wanted to ride over and see the artillery, 
pontoons, etc. — in the mud. Of course he got the horse, 
as his two horses were nearly played out. In less than 
half an hour my horse came back, without the rider, snort- 
ing and blowing as if he enjoyed a good run. As the 
colonel was galloping along, the horse al30Ut-faced very 
quickly, and Colonel Jennings lay in a mud-hole. What a 
sight to see 175 pounds avoirdupois crawling out oi that 
mud-hole, which was large and deep, and such a splash 
that several officers who were going the same way halted, 
and asked, "z\re you hurt, colonel?" After the colonel 
had emptied his mouth of the muddy water, he said, "No, 
I think not." The officers did not laugh loud until after- 
wards, for the spectacle was ridiculous. A pontoon-wagon 
with boat had been drawn out of the same ditch that morn- 
ing by twenty horses. After dress parade the colonel 
came to me, (not laughing), but with a twinkle in his eye, 
and said, "That's a great horse of yours, major!" "Yes, 
he is the best in the regiment," I said. "If he belonged to 
me I would shoot him," said the colonel. I said, "What's 
the matter with the horse ?" "What's the matter? You 
know ! Such a horse !" "Yes, I heard of the accident. Are 
you hurt?" "No, only jarred some." "Well, colonel, I am 
sorry that the accident occurred; it might have been 
worse. Suppose your neck had been broken; that would 



256 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

have been awful. It is well the mud was so soft, or there 
might have been a real accident. Do you know, that horse 
taught me to ride? His worst habit was to lope along, 
and in a moment he about-faced — that is, he turned his 
head where his tail should be — and the rider, if not on his 
guard, went over his head. He threw me twice on the 
pommel of the saddle, and you know that's harder than 
mud. Colonel, this is the best horse I have, and any time 
I don't use him, you can have him, for you can't kill him." 
He replied, "Thank you ; I don't want him any more, as 
I have no use for that sort of a horse." 

Now as to that horse of mine. He was a bay, a well 
put up horse, heavily built, large breast and strong legs; 
the best horse in the regiment for all purposes, being 
careful of himself, thoroughly selfish, and always having 
an eye on the lookout. He was a natural trotter, and had 
some speed. I was told he could trot one mile in two 
minutes, or two miles in one minute, I forget which ; for 
I never tried his speed. But any man who rode him five 
miles on a trot would feel as if he had his liver jolted out 
of him. I found that out when I first rode him. Horse- 
back riding is recommended for dyspepsia, and one ride 
on this horse was a sure cure for the malady, and I was not 
troubled with it. Now, to teach him to lope was a ques- 
tion. He could trot and walk, but nothing else, and he 
would not be led. I gave him to David Campbell (quar- 
termaster-sergeant) to break him, as he had business in 
Washington every day. (This was while we were at 
Camp Boas.) In about a week, after breaking a pair of 
spurs, the horse could lope, but he never made a loper. It 
was hard work for him to get out of his natural gait. This 
horse was always fat. Sometimes he had no hay for a 
week; and at other times no oats or corn for days, and 



12/711 REGIMENT, P. \'. 257 

often a week or more at a time. But when he fasted too 
long, and the bark eaten from the stumps, he would get 
loose and go foraging, generally to the 59th New York, 
across the way. They had altogether about eight horses. 
My horse would go over and force nimself among the 
horses, for rations, and salute them with his hind legs: 
then a free fight took place. After kicking some of them 
loose, and out of the shed, he helped himself to what was 
left. Then the guards gathered up the stray horses and 
drove mine home. It was dangerous for a horseman to 
ride past him fast. He would let drive with those heavy 
hind legs of his, and if he struck, great damage would oc- 
cur. Coming from picket one morning, after reporting to 
General Howard, I was galloping along slowly. I no- 
ticed my horse kept looking back with one eye, and his 
left ear would waggle, and I knew something was coming 
on behind. In a moment an orderly, or aide, came up on 
a full run; without stopping, my horse let drive at the 
rider as he passed. I thought he knocked the orderly's leg 
off, but I never heard what, if any damage was done. x\fter 
Burnside's "stick in the mud" we built stables. Quarter- 
master Orth and I built on posts, the front, sides and roof 
being closed, and open behind. Another stable was put 
up by Colonel Jennings, Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, 
Chaplain Gregg, and I think John, the sutler. (Where 
the boards came from I don't know; probably our teams 
brought them from Acquia Landing. All officers must 
buy their horses, and put up stabling at their own ex- 
pense.) This new stable was built at the end of our sta- 
ble, and extended back at right angles. The chaplain's 
horse was third, and about opposite the rear of our stable. 
When all was completed, I walked up to see the improve- 
ments. I noticed, above the trough, a wide board was left 



258 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

off, SO the horses could look out, and also see what kind 
of feed they were getting. I also noticed the chaplain's 
horse would put his head out of the opening sideways and 
reach toward my horse, playfully. Of course my horse 
was of a playful nature, especially with his hind legs. As 
the chaplain's horse came nearer, my horse backed slowly, 
until within reach, when he let drive with a right-hander 
at the head of the chaplain's horse; but the head was 
drawn in very abruptly. A few days later, the chaplain 
came to see me. He was very much excited. "Major, 
your horse is a vicious horse; he kicked my horse about 
the head so that he fell back on his haunches, and broke the 
halter in several places." "When did this happen?" I 
said. "J"st a while ago. and I don't like it at all." I re- 
plied, "I am sorry, and hope your horse escaped injury. 
You know, chaplain, horses are playful, and they were just 
playing.'' "That's all right, but I don't like that kind of 
playing." "Well, what's to be done? Suppose you have 
Jim nail a strip across the opening. That will stop it. 
You brought my horse with yours from Harrisburg, and 
they are old friends, and only mean play." "Yes, great 
play that is !" The chaplain and I were good friends. The 
first month in service he. Quartermaster Orth, and myself 
messed together, but the chaplain complained about the 
expense of the table, that he had an old mother to sup- 
port, and could not afford it, etc. One day I got tired of 
this complaining and told him to take Jim (his darkey) 
and keep house. He (Jim) has nothing to do but attend 
to the horse and do your cooking. We dissolved and took 
Adjutant Chayne in our mess. No more grumbling af- 
terwards. 

Shortly after the horse fracas, after midnight, there 
was a free fight at the 59th New York stables. The horses 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 259 

got loose and squealed, and such a kicking against the 
boards that awakened the neighborhood. Presently my 
horse came running home with great speed, snorting and 
kicking, as if to finish up the spree. Our guards called 
"Ho! ho!" but he would take another run and report to 
the guard again, who would call "Ho! ho!" One guard 
said, "Whose horse is this?" The answer was, "The ma- 
jor's." I got up and opened the door. I never saw a 
darker night in my life than this one. Very cold and 
raining. I was satisfied not to go out ; so I let the horse 
go. But in the morning he was at his post, none the worse 
for the carousal. The guards about the stable knew him 
well ; he never kicked any of them, but scared a few who 
did not know of his tricks. We had some good riding 
horses in the regiment. Among the best riders were 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, and nis cream-colored horse, 
being a pretty horse, was a good and fast loper. Quarter- 
master Orth's gray, single-footed racker, was another 
fine saddle horse. On solid road you could hear his horse 
coming along, "clippe-clappe," "clippe-clappe." He was 
fast, and you rode as easy as in a rocking chair. Chap- 
fain Gregg had a pretty bay horse, and often talked about 
selling him and buying a cheaper horse, which would 
answer his purpose just as well. About this time the 
chaplain knew of all the horses that were for sale or trade 
in the Army of the Potomac. His time was mostly occu- 
pied in riding from regiment to regiment and talking 
"horse" with the clergy. Some of them called on him 
nearly daily, so he could tell you where a horse could be 
had and at what price. At one time the chaplain talked 
very bravely. He showed me two revolvers one day, and 
said, "Major, the first battle we get in I will take these re- 
volvers and get behind a tree and bang away at the 



26o MEMORIAL HISTORY 

enemy/' But when the first battle, or any other danger was 
at hand, the chaplain had much business with the teams 
and hospitals. I was satisfied that a chaplain in a regi- 
ment is about as much good as five wheels to a wagon. 

P. S. — About eighteen years later, who should walk into 
my store, at Lancaster, but Chaplain J. C. Gregg, as big 
and fat as ever. "Why, chaplain, where do you hail from? 
I have not seen you for so many years." ' wn, I have 
lived here for six months. I have charge of the Second 
Methodist church, down South Queen street." "Is that 
so? I did not know that." "Yes, I have a good congrega- 
tion. Come and see me." Some time afterwards, a friend 
of mine and I passed the church, just as the people were 
going in for the evening service. I said to my friend, 
"Let us go in and hear Chaplain Gregg preach. He was 
chaplain of my regiment, but I don't think I ever heard 
him preach." We took seats pretty well front, in an outer 
tier of pews, next to the aisle. In front of me sat Mr. 
Cookson, a large man, having no hair on his head except 
about his ears. The chaplain preached loud, and with 
force. When about half through, he touched on military 
experiences, pointed directly toward me, and said, "You 
know, major, how we suffered. You know, major, how 
so and so." The congregation looked to where he pointed. 
I never was so much ashamed in my life; but the people 
did not know me, and they looked at the bald head in front 
of me, same as I did. In about a week the chaplain called 
at my store, grinning all over his face. I greeted him, 
"Chaplain, I never was as much ashamed in my life as I 
was the other night. I never will go to your church again." 
He laughed heartily. The chaplain had a large congre- 
gation, was a good beggar, and collected and paid the 
debts of the church and the parsonage. He did a great 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 261 

deal of good in the few years he was in Lancaster. Peace 
to his ashes ! 



FRANK. 



Frank was neither an officer nor an enhsted private, and 
yet he was a feature, if not an important factor of the 
127th Regiment. 

He was the favorite of the trio, endowed with a su- 
perior instinct, bordering very closely upon intelligence; 
and as he is well remembered by each and every member 
of the regiment as the Dun, with white mane, feet, and star 
on his forehead — playfully named "butter and cream," a 
few incidents connected with the service, in which he was 
the central figure, might be worth recounting. 

Like a dog, he was warmly attached to human beings, 
and showed this part of his nature by refusing to tread 
upon the body of a human being, whether dead or alive ; 
and in galloping over the battlefield, he would pick his 
way, in order to avoid treading upon a human corpse. He 
was ot an affectionate nature, and gentle as a lamb; but 
withal, a nervous and spirited animal ; and was, to his 
master, what Bucephalaus was to Alexander the Great. 

If he was timid or cowardly, he never gave any evi- 
dence of such weakness; he seemed to be fearless — with 
bullets whistling past him, at the roar of cannon, or the 
bursting of shells — he neither faltered, flinched nor quiv- 
ered. He even had no fear of crossing a pontoon bridge. 
Alongside of Colonel Jennings on his horse, he headed the 
regiment in crossing the Rappahanock at the battle of 
Fredericksburg, and seemed to enjoy the thundering roar 
of cannon, the rattle of musketry, and the frightful noises 
incident to a terrific battle. 



262 MEiMORIAL HISTORY 

At the battle of Chancellorsville, when his rider was un- 
horsed by a shot from the enemy, he galloped over the 
field, and returned to the regiment, as if in search of his 
fallen master. It was at this time that Major Rohrer, who 
was on picket duty, and knew nothing of the regiment 
having suddenly crossed the Rappahanock on the morning 
of the 3rd of May, 1863; on hearing the roar of cannon 
and the incessant sharp cracks of musketry at Fredericks- 
burg, and the Heights beyond, from his line of pickets on 
the northern side of the Rappahanock, leveled his field 
glasses on Marie's Heights, where the battle was raging, 
and saw Frank running up the hill riderless, with the sad- 
dle stirrups flying in the air. He quickly recognized the 
horse, and at once joined his regiment, which was then en- 
gaged in the great battle. 

On one occasion, while Frank's master was General 
ofiicer of the picket line, in the wilds of Virginia, going 
his rounds, on a dark and dreary night, while wolves were 
howling, and there was danger from their attack, his mas- 
ter, while approaching the sentinels was in each case 
halted and ordered to dismount and give the counter-sign 
to the vigilant sentinels. As the horse was trained and 
accustomed to stand without being hitched, he unhesita- 
tingly dismounted, leaving Frank standing alone, while 
he approached the sentinel, gave the proper counter-sign, 
made the necessary inspection and then returned; but on 
one occasion unfortunately he was unable to find his horse, 
as Frank took it into his head to make an independent in- 
spection, on his own account, and took to his heels. The 
sentinel very kindly offered to go in search of the horse, 
and the rider took the musket and stood sentinel for up- 
wards of an hour, before the sentry returned with his 
horse. This long delay naturally enraged his master, who, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 263 

on the impulse of the provocation, deliberately kicked the 
horse, which affront Frank remembered, and at the very 
first opportunity which presented itself, he made a des- 
perate attempt to kick his master, in evident reciprocity, 
fortunately, however, without success; but this was the 
only time his master can recollect of his ever showing the 
slightest feeling of resentment, and never afterwards made 
any attempt to revenge himself for the impulsive injury. 

Frank was exceedingly fond of music, and was happiest 
when he could follow the drum corps or regimental band ; 
and would keep step to the music with unfaltering precis- 
ion, and sometimes even danced playfully when certain 
musical airs seemed to please or excite him. 

Frank had wonderful powers of endurance, and was al- 
ways ready for the march, happy under the saddle, and 
seemed happiest with his master in the saddle. While on 
special service, and after a very fatiguing journey of up- 
wards of eighty miles, with the master continuously in the 
saddle for fifteen hours, both the horse and the rider were 
worn out, hungry and sleepy. The master dismounted, 
bid his horse lie down, and Frank seemingly comprehend- 
ing the command, laid down by the roadside, stretched 
himself upon the ground, and his master laid down by the 
horse, using Frank's neck for a pillow. Both being com- 
pletely exhausted, they fell simultanteously asleep. For 
hours they slept without waking, and when the master 
awoke and rose to his feet, and not until then, Frank 
raised himself, neighed with delight at a recognition from 
his master, and seemed refreshed, when they resumed 
their journey. 

This was only one of many instances when Frank and 
his master slept side by side with the master's head rest- 
ing on the horse's neck ; and never once did this gentle 



264 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

beast ever disturb his masters slumber, or attempt to 
raise his head while his master was resting by his side, and 
using his neck for a head-rest. 

Sometime after the return and muster-out of the regi- 
ment, his master being too fond of him to think for a mo- 
ment of selling him, presented him to a friend, who prom- 
ised to take good care of him for life. The wami attach- 
ment between master and horse was manifested upon an 
occasion a few months subsequent to his disposal. His 
master was promenading on Third street in the city of 
Harrisburg, with his friend, Major Detweiler, when he 
was suddenly surprised by a horse's head rubbing up 
against his shoulder, and a horse neighing in a most de- 
lighted manner. He looked around and recognized 
Frank, who had refused to obey the guiding reins of the 
boy on his back, when he recognized his former master, 
and springing to the sidewalk, came gently up behind him, 
and affectionately rubbed his head against his master's 
cheek ; and when his master petted him and called him by 
name, he danced for joy, and gave every exhibition of un- 
bounded delight; while the unbidden tears coursed down 
the master's cheeks, at this remarkable demonstration of 
devoted affection. 

H. C. Alleman. 



FATIGUE DUTY. 



Each and all of the field officers were subject to detail 
duty of various kinds, including picket duty, court-martial 
duty and fatigue duty. While each of the officers of the 
127th Regiment was both willing and ready for duty at 
all times, the orderly from Division Headquarters never 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 265 

made his appearance in camp without some little flutter or 
anxiety, to see wnat the little three-cornered billet detail 
meant. Ofiicers detailed for special duty were exempt 
from regimental duty during the term of the detail, and 
sometimes it was very pleasant to be assigned to court- 
martial duty; and while it meant exposure and great re- 
sponsibility, no objection was made for picket duty, not- 
withstanding the fact, that while the picket line was some- 
times as much as five miles long, requiring the officer in 
charge to go over its entire length and inspect it closely 
three times in each twenty-four hours, twice during the 
day, and once after midnight, this duty was generally 
looked upon as a compliment showing the confidence of 
the Major-General commanding. 

But of all the detailed duty imposed upon field officers, 
fatigue duty was considered the most onerous, and the 
least in the line of dignity and soldierly qualification. Ma- 
jor Rohrer seemed to have his full share of this detail, not, 
however, because it was inferior or looked upon as objec- 
tionable and disagreeable ; but because of the high compli- 
ment which was paid him, as the best field officer in the 
brigade for handling working parties, and superintending 
the work of digging trenches, building embankments, 
clearing hill tops and all that sort of thing in the line of 
civil engineering. He was not only proficient, but a genius 
in this line of duty, and his work was so thoroughly mas- 
terly that he was continued week in and week out in com- 
mand of a large working force ; and he continued to do his 
work so thoroughly well, and with such good cheer, that 
General Abercrombie came to look upon him as about the 
only officer in the brigade who could intelligently master 
this sort of work. He was not only thoroughly competent, 
but he took a very great interest in the work ; and while he 
r 



266 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

was exacting, no complaints were made by his men, be- 
cause they felt that while they were doing hard manual 
labor, the Major was constantly busy in superintending 
the work, and intelligently instructing the men in the per- 
formance of their duties. 

Without complaining, and never once entering a protest 
against this constant detail for special duty, he at last, 
from constancy and over-work became prostrated, and not 
until then, was he relieved of this onerous duty; but he 
was very highly complimented by the commanding Gen- 
eral for the admirable, intelligent and uncomplaining man- 
ner in which he performed the duty assigned him. 



CORPORAL LEMUEL MOVER. 



Among the many acts of heroism performed by both 
officers and men on the thirteenth of December, 1862, on 
the bloody field of Fredericksburg, the gallantry of Cor- 
poral Lemuel Moyer, of Company "E," stands out in bold 
relief. 

In the panic, caused by the retreat of the Tammany 
Regiment in their wild rush to the rear, crying, "Retreat !" 
"Retreat!" "the whole of Lee's army is charging us." They 
carried with them a portion of the 127th Regiment, who 
were forced by them to the rear. The color sergeant was 
shot down while carrying and bravely maintaining the 
flag. Corporal Moyer, observing the absence of the flag, 
voluntarily ran up the declivity, to the position which had 
been occupied by the regiment, searched out the dead color 
sergeant, seized the flag where it had fallen, and in tri- 
umph brought it back to the color guard. It was a bold 
and daring act, reflecting the highest credit upon him for 
his stalwart heroism and patriotism. 



I27TH REGTMENT, P. V. 267 

FROM MAJOR ROHRER'S DIARY. 



December i6th, 1862. Back to our old camp. Received 
orders to be ready for inspection at 8 o'clock. Many of 
our men lost their tents, blankets, etc., by putting them in 
a house, and when they came back they were gone. Also 
many guns broken by shot and shell. Inspected by Gen- 
eral Howard, who said the 127th Regiment, on Saturday, 
made the charge towards jMarie's Heights as straight as 
in dress parade. Disturbed about midnight. Order came 
for sixty men and two lieutenants to bury the dead. Re- 
quired to report at headquarters at 4 a. m. 

December 17th. Colonel Jennings, Lieutenant-Colonel 
Alleman, Adjutant Chayne and myself reported to Gen- 
eral Sully's headquarters explaining why the 127th Regi- 
ment fell back, without orders, on the 13th. Colonel Jen- 
nings and Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman gave testimony, 
and the regiment was exonerated from blame. General 
Howard said no regiment in the field did better than the 
127th, up to 4 p. M., when the 42nd Regiment of New 
York, and 19th and 20th Massachusetts passed through 
our line, and shortly came back pell-mell over our line, 
tramping our men and crying "Retreat ! Retreat" ! The 
men were misled by these cries as orders, and were carried 
away but at the foot of the hill formed into line again for 
action. 

December 19th. Last night a detail of 100 men was 
called to load pontoon boats. The men returned to camp 
at daylight. 

December 20th. Cold, clear morning. No horse feed. 
Lieutenant J. Hoyer, of regular cavalry (nephew of Gen- 
eral Simon Cameron) called on us. Quite a number of offi- 
cers from other regiments were to see us. Got horse feed 



268 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

at last; had no hay for a week. It is reported that our loss 
on Saturday, the 13th of December, was 13,505 killed and 
wounded. 

December 22nd. Started on picket (the whole regi- 
ment) about two miles to the line near the Rappahan- 
nock river. Our line rtui from the Harwood road to the 
river. Headquarters at Rev. Greeves' house. Rev. 
Greeves was dead. Had willed his property of 300 acres 
to his son (about i/ years old), and a negro slave. The 
boy said the Confederate cavalry ate all his com, 500 bar- 
rels, which is five bushels shelled to a barrel, worth $10 
per barrel, before the Federal army came to Fredericks- 
burg. Flour $20 per barrel. 

December 23rd. We expected to be relieved at 9 a. m., 
but it was dark before we were relieved, and we had a 
rough time before we reached camp. 

December 24th. Received orders to be ready for in- 
spection by 9 A. M., and review at 10.30 o'clock. Inspected 
by the colonel of the 59th New York. Reviewed by Gen- 
eral Sumner and his grand division officers. General 
Sumner complimented us, saying the 127th Regiment was 
a fine, stout set of men, and would be able to do some- 
thing. Made particular inquiry about our wants. Said 
we can have fresh beef three times a week, and ordered 
General Howard to give it to us. To-morrow is Chris- 
mas, and nothing but hard-tack and fat flitch. We had no 
bread for a month. Bad cold ; made a hot punch, and re- 
tired. 

December 25th, Christmas. Hard-tack and salted pork 
for breakfast, as usual. I was invited to dine with the 
chaplain. 

December 26th. Chaplain Gregg, Quartermaster Orth 
and myself rode over to the 122nd Regiment, P. V., Colo- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 269 

nel Franklin, of Lancaster. Met Andy Thomas, Colonel 
Franklin, Major Stevens and other officers. Returned 
home and had a good supper : fried onions, boiled rice 
and cold flitch. Met at Colonel Jennings' tent in the even- 
ing, and passed resolutions on the death of Captain Fox, 
Lieutenant Shoemaker, and the soldiers who were killed 
and died on the field of battle. Before retiring, concluded 
to have a few songs. Found the note book. Adjutant 
Chayne sang treble, Colonel Jennings tenor, and I bass. 
Sang quite a number of pieces. Retired. 

December 27th. Altering camp; tents torn down and 
rebuilt. Mr. Small, of Harrisburg, paid us a visit. He is 
in search of his son, Charles, who was wounded at Fred- 
ericksburg. Nothing new. Very short of rations. All 
officers must buy their own rations. Can't buy anything 
to eat in this country. 

Sunday, December 28. Chaplain Gregg preached this 
morning. General Howard came riding up just as the 
chaplain closed, and he made a few remarks. He had 
been, or wanted to be, a preacher at one time, after grad- 
uating at West Point. The General then visited our hos- 
pital. 

December 29th. All hands putting up winter quarters. 

January ist, 1863. On picket as general officer, in 
charge of 42nd New York. Slept in a bed for the first 
time since in service. Relieved the io6th Regiment, P. V., 
Colonel Morehead. Relieved by Colonel Suther, 34th 
New York, and the 19th Maine. On my return I learned 
that Daniel Bretz was suddenly taken ill on the thirty-first 
of December and died at 3.30 same day. Just buried on 
my arrival at camp. Nothing occurred today, except the 
chaplain wanted to trade a revolver for my watch. I made 
him an offer; he will think about it. Colonel Jennings 



270 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

came to my tent, and the trio had a few songs, in cele- 
bration of the new year. 

January 2nd. Brigade drill at 11 a. m. Returned by i 
p. M. General Howard drilled the 127th Regiment in 
manual of arms. Well pleased ; said did splendidly. This 
has been a day like May. Charges brought against Dr. 
Reilly for neglect of duty to Private Bretz, and others. 
Large siege guns are brought to Falmouth Station. 

January 5th. Regiment started for brigade drill at 10.30 
A. M. Afterwards reviewed by General Howard, in the 
presence of General Sedgwick. Colonel Jennings took 
command of the regiment. At 2 p. m. Colonel Jennings 
drilled the regiment in the manual of arms. Finished our 
quarters. Chimney smoked and choked us out. 

January 6th. Chimney torn down and rebuilt by cor- 
poral of Company "K." It does admirably now. Had 
grand review at 11 a. m. by General Sedgwick. Rain- 
ing and blowing. Good dinner ; short-cakes and boiled po- 
tatoes. Best meal our mess had for a week. Colonel Jen- 
nings, Adjutant Chayne and myself had a good singing 
spell for an hour, then finished on hot whiskey punch, and 
adjourned. 

January 8th. Early this a. m. I heard voices outside of 
our tent door, reading and laughing. When we arose 
there was a large hand-bill on the door, calling us the 
"Chayne Gaities," which caused some amusement. At 
dress parade Lieutenant-Colonel AUeman notified the offi- 
cers that the "Chayne Gaities" had closed for the season. 
Colonel Jennings called at the Temple (which is my tent), 
and we had a good sing. So the gaities will still be open ! 
Orderly arrived; gave notice that the 127th Regiment goes 
on picket in the morning. 

Sunday, January nth. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman is 



l27tH kEGlMENT, P. V. 2/1 

sick. The regiment is turned over to my care by Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Alleman, Colonel Jennings at brigade head- 
quarters. John F. Orth, quartermaster, has been sick for 
two weeks, but is now convalescing. 

January 12th. Our sutler came today. He paid fifty 
dollars to have his wagon ferried over the Potomac at 
Acquia Creek. No sutler since December ist. Colonel 
Jennings took command of the regiment. Dr. Alleman 
visited his brother, the Lieutenant-Colonel, today. 

January 15th. Dr. James R. Reilly left the 127th Regi- 
ment to report to the 179th Pennsylvania militia. Brigade 
drill at 2 p. m. Colonel Brooke commander. Spent the 
evening with Captain Shott and his officers. Lieutenant 
Schreiner will resign. 

January 17th. The 127th Regiment marched for grand 
review. Thousands of infantry. General Burnside re- 
viewing officer and commander of the Army of the Po- 
tomac. Received orders to report to General Howard's 
headquarters at 8.30 a. m. tomorrow for picket duty. 

January 19th. Relieved by the 34th New York Regi- 
ment. Reported to General Howard and then to camp. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman is still quite sick. Sick in 
hospital, 10; in quarters, 75. Many reports as to moving. 
The three grand divisions have marching orders. 

January 20th. Orders to be ready to move at an early 
hour to-morrow morning. Also order No. 7, that we are 
about to give the enemy another battle, and hoping that 
the officers and men would do their duty to the Constitu- 
tion and the Union. The order was read to the regiment 
by Colonel Jennings, and was heartily cheered, for the re- 
marks he made relative to the duty and conduct of the 
127th Regiment at Fredericksburg. General Franklin's 
grand division has been marching to our right all the af- 



272 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

temoon, part of his men resting near our rear, or right 
flank. Many of their men called and remained with our 
boys all night. It rained heavily since dark, and is cold. 
Troops no shelter. Our haversacks full, 

January 21st. Cold and raining all the night. Frank- 
lin's division exposed to all the elements, and the rain still 
pouring down. Our quartermaster's Sibley tent blown 
down this morning; all the inmates in bed were exposed 
to the cold rain. Ten a. m. troops moving slowly on ac- 
count of the mud. Pontoon wagons stalled in the mud. 
The 127th Regiment did not move today. Still raining at 
taps. We expect to move in the morning. Nine p. m., 
cold and raining. 

January 22nd. The Army of the Potomac as organized 
at present, commanded by Burnside : Right grand di- 
vision commanded by Major-General E. V. Sumner; com- 
posed of the 2nd Corps, commanded by Major-General D. 
N. Couch, and the 9th Corps, commanded by Major-Gen- 
eral William F. Smith. Center grand division, command- 
ed by Major-General Joe Hooker, composed of the 3rd 
Corps, commanded by Brigadier George Stoneman, and 
the 5th Corps commanded by Major-General George G. 
Meade. Left grand division, commanded by Major-Gen- 
eral William B. Franklin, composed as follows: ist Corps 
commanded by Brigadier-General John F. Reynolds, 
and the 6th Corps commanded by Major-General 
John Sedgwick. Reserve grand division, com- 
manded by Major-General Franz Sigel, composed of the 
nth Corps commanded by Major-General Stahl, and the 
I2th Corps commanded by Major-General H. W. Slocum. 
The Second Brigade, 2nd Corps, was composed of the fol- 
lowing regiments : Seventh Michigan, 19th and 20th 
Massachusetts, 42nd (Tammany) and 59th New York, 



127th regiment, p. v. 273 

and the 127th P. V. The Third Brigade at this time was 
commanded by Colonel Jno. R. Brooke, of the 53rd P. V. 
The Second division by General O. O. Howard. 

January 23rd. Rained all day yesterday and last night. 
The 127th Regiment did not move as anticipated. About 
10 A. M. troops are going back to their old quarters, some 
going the nearest route. The roads impassable. Thous- 
ands of men detailed to make corduroy roads, to get the 
artillery out of the mire. Twenty horses to a single caisson 
or cannon, and that many men, could not move them. The 
wagon train which was probably ten or twelve miles long, 
had moved out the Harwood Road, ahead of the army. The 
soil of Virginia is the worst kind of soil; considerable 
mica in it, and a rain ruins the roads. You drive along the 
road after an ordinary rain, and it looks all right, but it is 
full of holes, and the wagons or artillery will sink in the 
mud up to the axles. No man can have the remotest idea 
of how the roads looked when the pontoon wagons and ar- 
tillery were to be taken out of the mud. Hundreds of 
mules were killed. A mule, when the mud is deep, will 
not pull, but will lie down, it matters not how much the 
driver beats him. There they lay dead, eyes beaten out 
and heads mashed; some buried on the spot, in the road, 
with their legs sticking out, and teams drive over them. 
Pontoon wagons with tongues broken off, run to a side. 
The supply wagons had gone ahead before the rain, but it 
took two weeks before all got back. Some artillery was 
brought back about three weeks later. This was called 
"Burnside's stick in the mud." General Burnside con- 
templated making a bayonet charge on the enemy with his 
whole army and leave the artillery back, (for artillery 
could not be moved), but this was abandoned. The army 
settled back to its old quarters to recuperate. Our Right 



274 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Grand Division was the right of the army. When the 
move was made, the Left Grand Division moved from the 
left of the army to the right, passing us about half a mile 
on our right and rear. Then the Center Grand Division 
followed. Next would have been our turn to move 
(Sumner's Grand Division), but the rain stopped that 
move, and we were not sorry. 

January 26th. Pretty good living since our sutler is 
here: Ham, 25 cents per pound; cheese, 50 cents per 
pound ; onions, $3 per bushel. More rain. Lieutenant- 
Colonel AUeman resumed command of the regiment. 

January 28th. Raining and snowing. The 127th Regi- 
ment goes on picket duty. We relieved the 72nd P. V., 
Baxter's Zouaves, of Philadelphia. Stationed the line. 
Colonel Jennings and myself started over the line just be- 
fore dark. The weather was terrible; snowing and blow- 
ing all the day. Company "B" had made a hollow square 
of saplings and sat on the poles, facing inwards towards 
the fire. They said this was Valley Forge. It was in the 
woods and the snow did not strike them, the trees holding 
it ofif, while outside, the snow was about a foot deep. We 
invited Captain Awl and the captains nearest to go along 
to headquarters. Lieutenant Wise, acting adjutant, 
had caught a rabbit on our arrival in the morn- 
ing, and we had it cooked for supper. Colonel Jennings, 
Captain Awl, Captain Greenawalt, Lieutenant Wise, and 
myself ate the rabbit. The party was delighted with the 
feast, it being the first fresh meat we had for a month. 
When you eat hard-tack and salt-flitch for a month, three 
times a day, you get very tired of it, and want a change. 

January 29th. Captain Greenawalt came this morning, 
as usual, for his breakfast, for he never carries any rations 
along. He stated that the snow was sixteen inches deep, 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 275 

and it stopped snowing at daylight. Captain Greenawalt 
was one of four who travelled through to California on 
foot in 1849. He was a powerfully built man, and feared 
nothing human. At home, when he drank too much lem- 
onade with a stick in it, he was a terror to all bystanders, 
and many were the pieces of furniture lying about. Mr. 
Greaves, in his life-time, built a brick church along the 
Harwood Road for his congregation. The church was 
quite large, two stories high. The lower part for Sab- 
bath-school and lectures; the upper room for preaching, 
etc. The church was built quite up-to-date in appearance, 
and apparently new. When we first picketed on this farm 
we could not walk through the woods of pine. The soil 
at one time had been farmed. The furrows of land, as 
farmers call it, sixteen paces apart, were there. When too 
poor the land was untilled, and pine grew up ; saplings, 
and some trees about ten inches in diameter. From near 
the ground up to eight or nine feet high dead limbs stuck 
out two or three feet from every tree. These dead limbs 
were removed and used for firewood. This made an ave- 
nue six feet wide from the Harwood Road, through the 
woods, to the field next the house. The men were well 
sheltered, for the heavy snow bent the green pine foliage 
over so it formed a canopy. V^ery little snow fell to the 
ground, hardly enough to cover it. Young Greaves 
wanted to learn to play cards. Our reserves were 
stationed about headquarters, and they had possession of 
a large kitchen, or diningroom, where card playing was 
going on ; euchre or seven up. Greaves was taking les- 
sons. The darkey man Avas busy in an out kitchen baking 
pone in tin dishes, the size of a pie-plate. The boys paid 
twenty-five cents for each pone. At last a banter was made 
to put up twenty-five cents against a cake. Greaves, who 



276 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

was learning fast, took the offer. That twenty-five cents 
was up all night and never lost once. The boys had plenty 
of pone and some left for breakfast. The negro nearly 
worked to death filling orders, and coining money as he 
thought; but Greaves got little money, and so the slave 
was no wiser. Greaves had lots of instructors telling him 
how to play ; but no use, he lost all the time. This church 
was torn down to the foundation and carried away by 
General Sigel's men for quarters, but before all was car- 
ried away, I think our wagons went out to get a few 
bricks to build an oven. Relieved by the 34th New York 
Regiment. Two of Company "B's" men hurt their backs 
by jumping across the run. Colonel Jennings, on our way 
to camp, said, "Major, by tomorrow half of our men will 
be sick." At every step the snow and slush filled their 
shoes, as they went in up to their knees, and they were all 
wet below our knees from slush, and above with perspir- 
ation. No drill today. 

Sunday, February ist. Nothing but camp duties the 
last two days. Our mess had roast beef, dried apple 
dumplings and wine sauce for dinner. Quartermaster 
John F. Orth joined the regiment, just from home on 
leave. No dress parade. Rainy and muddy. 

February 2nd. Colonel Jennings has this day been 
appointed commander of the 3rd Brigade, until Colonel 
John R. Brooke returns from leave of absence. This 
places me in command of the regiment, as lieutenant-colo- 
nel Alleman is yet an invalid. A rigid examination of all 
fit for duty, and those sick in quarters, was made today. 
Colonel Jennings left for Falmouth to take charge of 3rd 
Brigade. I gave Captain Henderson, of Company "C," a 
pass to take the band and officers to Falmouth to serenade 
Colonel Jennings this evening — not to exceed twenty men. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. \^ 277 

Splendid evening; boys full of fun. Orders for inspection 
at 10 A. M. tomorrow. 

February 3rd. Terribly cold, and snowing. Major 
Roberts of the 72nd Regiment, P. V. (Baxter's Zouaves, 
Philadelphia), came to inspect the 127th Regiment. It was 
so cold and damp that the inspection took place by com- 
panies. Company "B" was inspected first, etc. At 4 p. m. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Deveraux, of the 19th Massachusetts 
Regiment, was to come and drill the regiment. Major 
Roberts remained to see the dress parade. When the time 
arrived, the dress parade was formed. I had Major Rob- 
erts by my side. When we were nearly through (includ- 
ing loading twelve times), Lieutenant-Colonel Deveraux 
came riding up the road, he having a full view of the regi- 
ment. Major Roberts told Lieutenant-Colonel Deveraux 
that the 127th Regiment was in splendid condition in 
everything; better than any regiment he inspected down 
here. We had a number one report by the officers above 
named. 

February 4th. Very cold. Not well, being out all day 
inspecting the regiment, etc. Caught a bad cold. Quar- 
tennaster Orth and myself rode to- Falmouth to see Colo- 
nel Jennings. He felt lonely, being away from the regi- 
ment. At my request, Captain J. W^esley Awl, Company 
"B," took ofif dress parade, and drilled the regiment ac- 
cordingly. 

February 5th. Snowing terribly. Part of Sigel's 
Corps is moving today to Brooks' Station. Fine day for a 
march. Orders for 127th Regiment to go on picket at 9 
A. M. to-morrow. Raining hard to-night. 

February 7th. Major of the 19th Maine remained with 
us until this morning. Beautiful morning, the sun shin- 
ing. We straightened up the line. Met General Sickles' 



278 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Brigade (New York) coming from a reconnoissance. Re- 
lieved by the 34th New York Regiment. Paymaster 
coming tomorrow, good news. Reported the 9th Army 
Corps moved to Fortress Monroe. At 9 p. m. an orderly ar- 
rived : a detail of 200 men, regularly officered for picket 
duty, to report at the Lacy House opposite Fredericksburg 
to-morrow (Sunday) at 9 a. m. I appointed Captain Awl, 
Company "B," commander of the battalion. 

Sunday, February 8th. Captain Awl and his battalion 
feft for their destination, the Lacy House. Orderly ar- 
rives with orders detailing me to attend a court-martial, to 
convene at or near Brig.-Gen. Owens' headquarters. Col- 
onel Jennings was to see us in camp today. He said the 
127th will be moved to Falmouth in a few days. The enemy 
had built several bridges six or eight miles above here. 
Sickles' reconnoissance destroyed the bridges and partly 
burned them. General O. O. Howard and a lady visited 
our hospital today; also the 59th New York, across the 
way. The companies sent to the Lacy House for picket 
duty were companies "B," "G," "K" and "E," and five 
men each from Campanies "H," "C," "I" and "D." I feel 
very unwell. Took nine grains of blue mass at noon and a 
dose of cathartic at bedtime — passed the Guard-House. 

February 9th. I felt better. Attended court-martial. 
Adjourned at 12 noon, having disposed of one case. The 
four companies on picket returned to camp, ankle-deep in 
mud. 

February loth. A spring morning. Started for court- 
martial. Detailed Jim Miller as orderly. Disposed of two 
cases. Heavy picket force moved up the road, about five 
regiments. 

February nth. Commenced to snow and rain briskly 
and continued until midnight. 



I27TII REGIMENT, P. V. 2/9 

February 12th. I gave the necessary orders in camp 
and appointed Captain Awl commander, then reported to 
court-martial. Returned to camp at 10 a. m. Colonel 
Jennings in camp. Sauer kraut for dinner. It was ele- 
gant. Colonel Jennings suggested to have the quarter- 
master's tent moved out of the mud; also an oven to be 
built, to bake bread for our officers and men. Good move. 
Captain Awl drilled the regiment in the manual of arms. 
Judge Felix Nissley and Thomas Moore, from Dauphin 
county, visited our camp this evening. They came by way 
of the Lacy House, and saw the Rebs on the other side. I 
don't think Judge Nissley slept much. He lay between the 
adjutant and myself. The knots on the hoop poles in the 
center of the bed protruded, and the Judge being a skinny 
man, felt the effects at once. At four o'clock in the morn- 
ing he said he would get up, if I had no objections. I 
made none. He afterwards said that was the hardest bed 
he ever slept in. In the evening arrangements were made 
to take them over to the station. No persuasion would 
keep the judge here to see an army. He was nervous at 
what he saw, so we shipped them to the station at 6 a. m. 

February 13th. I left for court-martial. Colonel Jen- 
nings arrived bag and baggage. Colonel Brooke arrived 
and took charge of the brigade. Lieutenant Henry, Com- 
pany "1," arrived in camp. He recovered from his wound 
at battle of Fredericksburg. 

February 14th. Nothing new. A fine view of the enemy 
digging rifle-pits and other fortifications. Four com- 
panies for picket duty tomorrow. 

February 15th. Raining all the morning. Companies 
"D," 'T," "C and "H" started for picket duty along the 
Rappahannock. Captain James Henderson officer of the 
day. Colonel Jennings on a visit to camp. I took off 



28o MEMORIAL HISTORY 

dress parade. The lieutenant-colonel again on duty in 
command of the camp. 

February i6th. Quite a number of furloughs granted, 
and all start tomorrow. Colonel Jennings goes on leave 
of absence tomorrow morning; also Lieutenant Willis, 
Company "H." 

February 17th. Returned from court-martial. Tried 
two, one a lieutenant of the 71st P. V., Philadelphia. The 
59th New York and some of our boys had a snow-ball 
match. Of course the forces increased all the time. Some 
had bloody noses, etc. The major of the 59th New York 
ordered his men to quit, telling them they are brave. Ad- 
jutant Chayne received a box from home, so we (our 
mess) had a feast. Order for pickets. 

February i8th. Rain. One hundred and twenty-five 
men, two captains, five lieutenants, twelve corporals, and 
four sergeants started for picket duty. Paymaster ar- 
rived (Major Gould) and commenced to pay off. Terri- 
ble mud. We were paid up to December 31, 1862. 

February 19th. Rained all night, and our pickets had 
a terrible time. They arrived in camp about noon, soak- 
ing wet. Captain Awl will leave for home with the money 
of the officers and men. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman sent 
an inquiry if I could furnish bed for paymaster. Sent 
word, no bed. He sleeps in his- trunk, and no room for 
two. 

February 20th. Captain Awl left for Harrisburg with 
more than $30,000 for the families of the soldiers and 
officers. Lieutenant WilHam Orth is worse. His brother, 
the quartermaster, is trying to get his discharge by to- 
night, so as to get home tomorrow. Court-martial ad- 
journed sine die. 

February 21st. The papers of Lieutenant Orth did not 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 281 

come last night. He would not be fit to go, being too 
sick. Lieutenant Wise returned from Falmouth with 
mail, on horseback, and most gloriously happy. No drill 
to-day. A general cleaning of the camp ; moving of hos- 
pitals and stables to better positions. 

February 22nd. This is Washington's Birthday. Blow- 
ing and snowing most terribly, and most of the night pre- 
vious. The snow being dry, blows into every little crevice, 
My tent was shoveled out the second time. Snow a foot 
deep on the boxes and stool in our front office this morn- 
ing. Our sleeping tent was dry. This is the coldest 
morning. Twelve o'clock, noon, a salute of thirty-four 
guns has just been fired from our brigade. Salutes of 
large guns fired all over the army, in honor of George 
Washington. Order for 145 men for picket duty to-mor- 
row, 8.30 A. M. Companies "H," "C," "I" and "D," Cap- 
tains Shott, Henderson, Dougherty and Keene, five lieu- 
tenants, four sergeants, and nine corporals. 

February 23rd. Sunshine, but very cold. The pickets 
started ofif at 8.30 a. m. Lieutenant W. Orth died at 9 
A. M. His remains will be sent home to-morrow morning. 
Several lemon pies, half baked, were finished on a spade 
over the fire; but baked black, not fit to eat. Ouarter- 
Master Orth got the pass to take the remains of his broth- 
er home ; also pass for Captain Henderson for six days. 

February 24. The funeral party left at 5.30 a. m. Very 
cold. Pickets coming in ; they had a cold time of it. Quite 
an excitement. The 59th New York commenced snow- 
balling our men ; our boys pitched in and defeated them. 
The 42nd New York and Rhode Island Battery had a 
match, drawn up in line of battle, about equal in numbers. 
The battery men gave way, then the 42nd New York came 
to help the 59th New York. They brought their colors 
into our camp as far as my tent-door. The boys of the 



282 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

127th Regiment pitched in and soon drove them out of 
camp faster than they came in. Many bloody noses on 
both sides. Our baker still experimenting baking bread. 
The first bread baked in that oven was about two inches 
high and harder than a grindstone. 

February 25th. Sun shining. Commenced building 
another oven to bake bread. Hospital tents all moved to 
new location. Order for detail of 151 men, two captains, 
five lieutenants, four sergeants and nine corporals, to re- 
port at 8 A. M. tomorrow. 

February 26th. Raining most beautifully. The pickets 
started. Water running through my tent. Had a canal 
dug, so the water comes in on one side and runs out on 
the lower side. The officers of the guard of the 59th 
New York came to my tent and reported that firing was 
heard on our right. Reported that 5,000 Rebel cavalry 
had crossed about eight miles above, and the river had 
risen, so they could not recross. That 3,000 of our cav- 
alry and Humphrey's Division followed up the enemy, and 
a skirmish ensued. Result not known yet. 

February 27th. Clear morning. Colonel Jennings and 
David Campbell returned from home. The regiment mus- 
tered for two months' pay tomorrow. I was detailed as 
General officer of pickets, to report at 8.30 tomorrow 
morning, with the right wing of the regiment. 

February 28th. Reported to General Howard's head- 
quarters for instructions. Started for picket line. Met 
the right battalion of the 127th, part of the 59th New 
York, and part of the 42nd New York, going for the out- 
posts along the Rappahannock. Relieved Captain Stetson, 
io6th P. V. Our posts on this side of the river, and the 
Rebs on the other side in full view, but no picket shooting. 
10 P. M. Rained until morning. Stood on my feet all 
night ; no shelter. 



IZyjli REGIMENT, P. V. 283 

Sunday, March ist, 1863. Rainy morning. Last night 
I spent the longest night I ever spent. Reported at head- 
quarters of General Howard and relieved. Captain Wit- 
telsy, assistant adjutant general, of Howard's staff, told 
me my application was approved. He sent it up for leave 
of absence for ten days. This will let me go home in a 
day or two. Just received my papers to go home ; expect 
to go in the morning. 

March 2nd. Started at break of day for Falmouth Sta- 
tion and home. 

March i6th. Arrived from Harrisburg twO' days ago. 
Not so well since I left on the second. Nothing of note 
occurred but the routine of camp and picket duty. Colonel 
Jennings reported to General Couch's headquarters as 
corps officer. Our pickets returned to camp at 11 o'clock. 
D. Campbell purchased one gallon of oysters at Stone- 
man's Landing. We had a big mess about 9 p. m. 

March 17th. St. Patrick's Day. The Irish Brigade, 
General Meagher, are having a good time. Our band has 
been hired for the day. High mass at 8 a. m., all the 
country being there. A shaved pig (greased) will be one 
of the feats ; also a greased pole, with a bottle of whiskey 
at the top. The man wdio catches the greased pig and 
holds it will get fifteen days' furlough, and fifteen dollars. 
The man who climbs the greasy pole gets the whiskey, 
etc. Three p. m. Horse-racing. Generals Hooker, Couch, 
Howard, French, many brigadiers, and thousands of spec- 
tators were present. One horse fell and broke his neck; 
and the rider's neck also broken. Four p. m. heavy can- 
nonading heard about ten miles on our right. General 
Meagher told the boys, "Now boys, go to your regiments 
and get your sticks, for there will be other fun ahead for 
you to do." There was a general stampede for the different 



284 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

camps. The cannonading was kept up until near sunset. 
At dress parade the assistant adjutant-general of Meagh- 
er's staff came and told our band to come over, and they 
would have more fun for the boys tonight, as they heard 
of the extent of the firing. Thus ended the 17th, St. Pat- 
rick's Day. 

March i8th. The left battaliou of the regiment goes on 
picket at eight-thirty this morning. About twenty-five 
rebel prisoners (Stuart's Cavalry) brought in, and quite a 
number of horses. Our cavalry made a raid on them, on 
our right, and beat them back. An order that I am to act 
as General officer of the corps; to report at 9 a. m. to-mor- 
row to General Couch for instructions. 

March 19th. I reported to General Couch at 8.30 
A. M. The staff ofificer said, "Are you in command ol 
your regiment?"' I said, "No, the colonel and lieutenant- 
colonel are on duty." He then said, "None but brigadiers 
and colonels in command of regiments can serve as corps 
officers. There is some mistake ; I will report to General 
Couch." The staff ofificer returned, and said, "You being 
a major, could not order your superior officers. The Gen- 
eral appoints you on his staff for to-day. You then say to 
your superior officers, 'By request of General Couch, etc' '' 
I then reported to the Lacy House and relieved the colonel 
of the 69th P. V. Took an orderly and started over the 
reserve line, about two miles below the Lacy House. I 
then commenced on the left of line to carry out the orders 
I was instructed in. All pickets, in daytime, to be with- 
drawn from the river two or three hundred yards, so they 
could not talk across the river. At night the pickets to be 
advanced to the river bank, but no talking across, etc. 
The river here was about sixty yards wide, but very deep. 
The bank on our side was about fifty yards back from the 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 285 

river, leaving a flat surface to the water's edge. I rode 
down to the edge of the water, (my red scarf across my 
shoulder, as officer of the day), and ordered the men, who 
were fishing along the river, back, also the pickets, just so 
they could see the river. The bank on the other side was 
probably forty feet high, level on top, having quite a num- 
ber of cabins, wiiere General Barksdale's Division, of 
Mississippi, camped. While I was giving orders and the 
men began to move, the Johnnies came out of the cabins 
and stood with folded arms, gazing at me, and at the 
movement of the men vvho were falling back to the ridge 
as directed. I sat on my horse admiring the fine, tall-look- 
ing men opposite. About thirty or more stood like statues, 
not knowing what it meant. I then followed the line up 
the river ordering the pickets to fall back. The rebel pick- 
ets on the other side took it all in as the line fell back. The 
river being narrow, so much talk across it could not be 
prevented unless such a change was made. Arrived at 
the Lacy House at noon, where I met David Campbell, our 
quartermaster-sergeant, who said there was a mistake 
made. You were to go on division picket. General 
Owens will relieve you, and you report to General How- 
ard. General Howard said, "It was a mistake on our part. 
You go to our second division pickets." Reported at the 
grand reserves at about 2 p. m. Met Major Roberts, 
of the 72nd P. v., commandant of the line, and officers of 
the 71st P. V. (ist California), and io6th P. V., Colonel 
Morehead's regiment. I then passed to the left of line 
near Falmouth, and took supper at Mr. Bryins, the very 
place my brother, George F. Rohrer, of Harrisburg, and 
myself visited in i860. Bryins is from Maryland, and 
his wife from Philadelphia. She was a tall, fine looking 
woman. Major Roberts and I went over the picket line. 



286 MRMORIAL HISTORY 

Returned and slept in Ivir. Bryins" parlor. SnOiwing and 
cold. Our supper cost fifty cents each, and a mighty poor 
one at that. These people being between the two lines, 
could get nothing from either side, so they often lived 
very poorly. 

March 24th, 1863. Since my last date nothing occurred 
but the daily routine of picket duty and regular camp 
duty. Today it is ten years since I was married. I wrote 
home to know if my wife still remembers the date. The 
130th P. V. bought a sword, belt and sash for Lieutenant- 
Colonel John Lee of the same regiment, to be presented to 
him at dress parade. Colonel Jennings, Lieutenant-Colo- 
nel Alleman and myself were invited to be present at the 
evening festival. Colonel Jennings came from Falmouth, 
he being relieved as commander of the Third Brigade by 
our old commander, Colonel Hall, of the 7th Michigan. 
Colonel Jenniiigs and myself started for the 130th P. V.; 
raining briskly. We had a good reception, the tent being 
crowded with officers. The first thing was whiskey, — 
plain. Next, draft ale, a large bucket full. Next, cheese 
and bread, etc., and to finish we had milk-punch. A num- 
ber of the of^cers were quite lively, particularly those ol 
the 14th Connecticut, — from a temperance State. We re- 
turned to camp at 10.30 p. m., in fine condition ! and 
health. Raining fast, and dark. 

Wednesday, March 25th. Captain Shott started a sub- 
scription among the officers for a sword, belt, spurs and 
sash for Colonel Jennings, as a token of esteem. Raised 
$167 b}' noon. No drill. Boys blacking up their belts and 
equipments for inspection. Governor Curtin expected to- 
morrow, he being on a visit to the Pennsylvania regiments, 

March 26th. Sent Quartermaster-Sergeant D. Camp- 
bell over to the 130th Regiment for one gallon of ale at 
one dollar a gallon. While Campbell was talking with the 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 287 

purveyor, the ale all leaked out — or in — so another gallon 
was bought. David Campbell started for Washington to 
purchase the equipment to be presented, (unknown), to 
Colonel Jennings. The Army of the Potomac was reor- 
ganized. Major-General Burnside was relieved from the 
command, and joined his old corps, the 9th. Major-Gen- 
erals Sumner and Franklin relieved. Fighting Joe Hook- 
er took command of the Army of the Potomac. General 
Howard took command of the nth Corps. General Gib- 
bons took command of the 2nd Division, 2nd Corps. Gen- 
eral Hooker said the 127th Regiment P. V. was the best 
disciplined of all the nine-month men in service. I bought 
a kit of mackerel for the mess from the purveyor of the 
130th P. V. Colonel Jennings came to the Temple 
tor a sing. The trio sang, then finished with hot commis- 
sary. Very good for a bad cold ; also a preventative. 

March 27th. Half the regiment gone on picket. Cap- 
tain Awl officer of pickets. I bought a pair of chickens for 
one dollar from the purveyor of the 130th P. V. ; will have 
pot-pie for dinner. Colonel Jennings and self rode over 
to the 27th Connecticut Regiment. Their numbers have de- 
creased very much by desertions — high bounty fellows. 
Towards evening we saw quite a gathering; it was the 
Philadelphia Brigade, General Owens. Colonel Jennings, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, Quartermaster Orth, and 
myself rode over. It was Governor Curtin reviewing the 
2d Brigade, (Owens), from Philadelphia. We heard the 
Governor make a fine speech, and he was cheered most 
heartily. We talked with him and invited him to our 
camp, but as we were the only regiment from Pennsylva- 
nia in the brigade, he did not have time to call. Must re- 
view another brigade in the morning, then go tO' our left 
and review General Reynolds' division. Comments from 



288 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

officers of other States, that we had the right kind of a 
Governor. He looks after his soldiers, and takes an in- 
terest in their welfare. Met at the Temple. Colonel Jen- 
nings, Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman, Surgeon Horner, Dr. 
Vastine, and other officers discussing what the next move 
will be, and general topics. 

March 28th. Raining and thundering. Inspection at 
10 A. M. dispensed with, on account of the rain. Captain 
Ball returned from home. Detail for picket tomorrow at 
8.30 A. M., forty-five men and our band, to form on 
grounds near Owens' Brigade, a regular grand guard 
mount of 600 men. 

Sunday, March 29th. Beautiful morning, but cold. 
Pickets start; also band. Inspected by companies. The 
inspector inspected all the companies and the regimental 
books to-day. Captain John Caslow, quartermaster-general 
on Meade's staff at Stoneman's Switch, was to see us ; also 
his brother, William, both schoolmates of mine; and the 
captain's son. Invited us over to dinner. They left for 
the 132nd P. V. General Howard and his brother visited 
our hospital. David Campbell returned from Washing- 
ton without sword or belt which was to be presented to 
Colonel Jennings. He said while on the boat, the money 
fell from his pocket into the water. Very funny, indeed ! 
As the three grand divisions were broken up, and General 
Hooker took command, the Army of the Potomac was re- 
organized, as follows: ist Corps commanded by Major- 
General John F. Reynolds, 2nd Corps by Major-General 
Couch, 3rd Corps by Major-General D. E. Sickles, 5th 
Corps by Major-General George G. Meade, 6th Corps by 
Major-General Sedgwick, nth Corps by Major-General 
O. O. Howard, 12th Corps by Major-General Slocum. 
The 9th Corps, Burnside's, left for Newport News. As 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. VV 289 

Stated before, D. Campbell returned from Washington 
without sword, belt, sash or spurs. Everything could be 
had except the sword, — unsatisfactory quality, and none 
purchasable short of Philadelphia. So no purchase was 
made, and he returned to Acquia, where he let his pocket 
book fall into the river, losing the $167. What the officers 
will say about the loss remains to be seen. 

March 30th. Colonel Hall, of the 7th Michigan, and 
commander of our brigade, paid us a visit. He is a very 
pleasant man, and very much of a gentleman. Lieutenant 
Jones, of the ist Minnesota Regiment, played a game of 
chess with me. By hard work, I won the game. I had 
given Colonel Jennings, Adjutant Chayne and Lieutenant 
Wise, some lessons on chess at the Temple. Of course 
they would have enjoyed it if I had been beaten. No 
laugh this time. The officers met at the Sibley, (Quarter- 
master Orth's, Commissary). Captain John K. Shott 
stated to the meeting the case relative to the money which 
had been collected for the sword, belt, sash and spurs, and 
which was lost by D. Campbell. All felt disappointed, 
but it was decided that the proceedings rest for the pres- 
ent. Several games of chess played by Colonel Jennings 
and Adjutant Chayne. Eleven p. m. Adjourned. 

March 31st. Raining, and three inches of snow. Our 
pickets left. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman is General Field 
officer of the day, and has gone. Colonel Jennings dined 
with me; we had meat-pie. Captain Nissley is sick, and 
Lieutenant Wise has gone on picket, in his place. 

April 1st, 1863. Considerable stir and noise. Four a. 
M. an orderly opened my door and notified me to be ready 
to fall in at a moment's notice ; the Rebs on the Harwood 
Road. Got up; found all the companies in a stir. Un- 
easy about the lieutenant-colonel, who is on picket. Our 
companies all formed and ready in company streets; 



290 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

stacked arms and retired for an hour. The batteries ready 
to pull out. Very cold ; ground frozen hard. After drink- 
ing a cup of coffee I retired for an hour, first having my 
horse fed and cleaned. Our detail of pickets start to the 
front. Ten a. m. All quiet; the battery horses un- 
hitched. My horse feed stolen last night. The Rebs mov- 
ing some on the other side of the Rappahannock. Deser- 
tions nearly every day from the Rebs. The other day one 
swam the river. He said they had only one pint of flour 
and a quarter-pound of fliich a day, and were miserably 
clad. About six Rebs were crossing in a boat, to desert, 
but were fired upon, and compelled to go back. The Tem- 
ple full to-night; chess and cards. 

April 2nd. All quiet along the line. Exceedingly 
warm and sultry. Sudden changes hard on our men. 
Pickets, as usual, gone, and those out returned to camp. 
Colonel Jennings and myself visited the 24th New Jersey ; 
the regiment was out on picket. Went on the parade 
ground and saw the 28th New Jersey drill. They drilled 
very badly, but better than any time before. Pontoon 
wagons moving last night and to-day hauling planking, 
headed up the river. Notified that Major Rohrer of the 
127th Regiment, will report at these headquarters as com- 
mandant of division pickets at 8.30 to-morrow. 

April 3rd. The quartermaster bought two shad for one 
dollar at Acquia Creek, yesterday; so we had shad for 
breakfast. I reported to the picket post, 468 privates, 
seven sergeants, twenty-six corporals, thirteen line ofK- 
cers, one commandant of pickets, one division field officer, 
and one corps officer, who has supervision of the whole 
corps. I passed over the line from 12 to 4 p. m. 
Sent the grand guard out at 9 p. m. to relieve the 
others. I put my gum blanket on the ground and my 



I27'in REGIMENT, P. V. 29 1 

Other blanket on top, and tried to sleep in the open air. 
Heard a noise, saw a horse coming down the hill right for 
my head. Got up; horse stops. It was my horse; I 
caught him. Tried to sleep ; getting colder. 

April 4th. Could not sleep. Got up at 2 a. m. and 
rode over the line (very cold for April), and returned at 
4 A. M. I sat by a poor fire, perfectly chilled, until 
daylight. The relief came at 9.30 a. m. The ma- 
jor of the 34th New York relieved me, and Colonel Jen- 
nings relieved the division officer. I returned to camp. 
The regiment reviewed at 3 p. m. Cold and stormy. 
A. A. I. General, Lieutenant Casto, came and inspected 
the regiment. Review and inspection satisfactory ; so re- 
ported. About dusk a terrible snow storm. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Alleman's chimney blew down, falling oti his tent, 
but did not break through. Other chimneys and tents 
blown down. The whole camp aroused. Some fires 
among the tents, but not serious. 

Sunday, April 5th. This morning there was six inches 
of snow in front of my tent. Our sleeping tent all right. 
All our mess are away; so Lieutenant Reed, acting adju- 
tant, is my bed fellow. Easter Sunday. Still snowing. 
Our pickets came to camp ; they suffered much. No fires 
allowed on picket line. 

April 6th. Lieutenant Reed detailed for court-martial. 
Colonel Jennings and Lieutenant Colonel Alleman started 
to see the review of cavalry by President Lincoln. I did 
not go ; had a bad cold and felt very unwell. A fine show ; 
about 15,000 cavalry reviewed. The Rebs were on top of 
the hills looking at the review, opposite Fredericksburg, 
(but back from the river). It was expected some shells 
would be thrown across among the cavalry, but they were 
not molested. Had they fired shells among the troops, hot 



292 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

shot would have been fired into the city and the town 
burned. To-morrow 80,000 infantry will be reviewed. 
John Osman, Campany "H/' died this morning from ty- 
phoid fever. Orders came for review to-morrow, and 
one meal in haversack for dinner; also a detail of fifteen 
men and one officer to report at corps headquarters at 6 
A. M. to-morrow. 

April 7th. Not well, but rode to brigade headquarters 
to get a furlough for John McDermit, of Company "G," 
to take the dead body of John Osman home. Waited until 
Colonel Hall came at 11 a. m. He was acting corps 
officer. Accomplished my object, reported to General 
Gibbon. He not being there, left the paper with Major 
Whittelsy, then rode over and saw Colonel Walker, of 
Couch's staff", and returned to camp. 

April 8th. Colonel Jennings received orders at i a. m. 
this morning to appear on review with the regiment at 
9.30 a. m. The regiment left for review, but I was 
not well enough to go. Company "H" started on picket. 
Captain F. Asbury Awl, Company "A," (at Washington), 
is here on a visit to the regiment, to visit his brother. Cap- 
tain J. Wesley Awl, of Company "B." The furlough for 
McDermit arrived in the morning. He will take the corpse 
home. President Lincoln, General Hooker, and a host of 
Generals reviewed about 300 regiments, in all about 82,000 
men. It was a brilliant afifair. Mrs. Lincoln, and other 
ladies were there. Young Lincoln, about twelve years old, 
rode along with his father. Cold and cloudy. Colonel 
Jennings detailed for corps officer. 

Thursday, April 9th. Shipped the body of Osman off 
for Harrisburg. Colonel Jennings started for picket. 
Company drill forenoon and afternoon. Company "H" 
returned from picket. Company "D" goes on picket to- 
morrow. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 293 

April loth. Spring morning. Company "I" and part 
of Company "B" go on picket. Colonel Jennings returned 
from picket. Rebs called over that we have Charleston. 
Another says, "You got rats at Charleston." Lieutenant 
Driver, acting assistant adjutant-general of our brigade, 
came to inspect the adjutant's books. Lieutenant-Colonel 
Alleman is mustering the regiment, (as to numbers), to 
report to Attorney-General at Harrisburg, to be enrolled 
with the militia of the State for draft. 

Saturday, April nth. Quartermaster Orth and I took 
a ride, being a fine morning. We rode all around General 
French's Division. Called on 130th P. V. Met Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Lee ; he set up the commissary. Then rode 
over to the Harwood Road, looked at a battery drill, rode 
through General Owens' brigade, and left for Falmouth. 
Met Colonel Jennings. His horse made a sudden stop, and 
the colonel fell plump on his hind quarters, not hurt, 
but shook up some. Returned to the regiment; very hot. 

Sunday, April 12th. Inspection of the regiment at 2 
p. M. At 4 p. M. Captain Nissley, Quartemiaster 
Orth, Lieutenant Reed and myself rode to Stoneman's 
Switch. Called at headquarters of General Meade, on 
Captain John Caslow, quartermaster of corps. The cap- 
tain treated to ale. Returned by way of General Howard's 
headquarters. Commenced to rain ; arrived at camp after 
dusk; quite damp. Captain Caslow told us that 10,000 
cavalry men would move in the morning; also the ist and 
3rd Coqjs, and artillery. 

April 13th. The troops, as stated yesterday, are in mo- 
tion. It is reported that Stuart's cavalry are traveling to- 
wards Pennsylvania, and that our troops are going after 
Stuart. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman detailed as division 
officer for pickets, at 8.30 to-morrow morning. Re- 



294 me:morial history 

ported Lee's army is moving- towards Winchester. Or- 
ders to iiave three days' rations drawn. I was just detailed 
as commandant of pickets, to report at 8.30 a. m. 
to-morrow. This is unusual, two field officers from same 
regiment at one time, for same picket line. Another order 
to draw five days' more rations, three cooked ; in haver- 
sack, and five in knapsack. 

April 14th. Pine morning-. Lieutenant-Colonel and 
myself left for picket post with 500 men. Rebs sent over 
a little boat rigged with rudder, with some Richmond pa- 
pers. General Couch anxious to hear from Charleston. 
It was rumored that our iron-clad had been repulsed, and 
also our land forces. Company "B" and part of Company 
"D" are on picket. 

April 15th. Our regiment and the whole army ordered 
to be ready to move at 9 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel 
Alleman started for camp ; first reported to headquarters. 
Raining, raining! I returned to camp at 11 a. m. 
well soaked with rain. By an order, all the supplies and 
baggage, even the blankets of the men, were to be sent off 
for Washington, all to be ready for march with eight days' 
rations. The field officers to carry eight days' feed (oats, 
etc.) , on their horses. Reported that the cavalry force had 
returned, and most of the 400 wagons had returned also. 
A game of euchre at the Temple ; Captains Shott, Hender- 
son, Nissley and myself were the players. 

April 1 8th. Company "H ' gone on picket. Paymaster 
Walker arrived at the 59th New York and paid them ofit ; 
arrived at our camp at 8 p. m. and paid ofif five com- 
panies. We made milk-punch for the paymaster, and 
our gang at the Temple; condensed milk, commissary, 
boiling water and sugar; very good for a bad cold, you 
know. Colonel Jennings gave his bed to the paymaster, 
then I shared half of my bed wilh him. 



12'/Tll REGIMENT, P. V. 295 

Sunday, April 20th. Company "I" goes on picket, Cap- 
tain Nissley, at 8 a. m. Raining. Quartermaster 
Orth left for Acquia Station to express the officers' money 
home. It is reported that President Lincoln and General 
Halleck visited General Hooker last night. Quartermas- 
ter Orth returned from expressing our money, and 
brought two shad and three rock fish. What a feast we 
had ! Still raining. 

April 2 1 St. Shad and shad eggs for breakfast; high 
living, when we got it. Company "C" and part of Com- 
pany "B" go on picket. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman took 
off dress parade. Chess at the Temple, Colonel Jennings 
three games behind. 

April 22nd. Our pickets gone as usual. Colonel Jen- 
nings and Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman rode over to Colo- 
nel Allebaugh's brigade. The news is that a move will be 
made in a few days. Colonel Jennings and self rode over 
to the 130th P. v., and then to the 132nd P. V., and re- 
turned to camp. Retired at ten o'clock. I took a blue pill. 
This is the greatest country to get bilious I ever knew. 
Since General Hooker has command of the Army of the 
Potomac, he has given plenty of work for the cavalry on 
our right. General Stoneman has been making raids all 
the time. General Hooker said he never saw a dead cav- 
alryman, and gives them plenty of w^ork to do. 

April 23rd. Raining hard; small streams swollen, and 
the Rappahannock is high. Word from tlie War Depart- 
ment that the expiration of the nine-month men would be 
reckoned from the time the last company was mustered 
into the United States service. Colonel Jennings and self 
played three games of chess, the Colonel winning two out 
of the three. He would not play any more that night, but 
he played with Captain Greenawalt. Not feeling well, I 
retired and left them playing. 



296 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

April 24th. Camp and picket duty, as usual. Dress 
parade at 5 p. m. Colonel Jennings and self had an in- 
vitation from Lieutenant-Colonel Thoman, of the 59th 
New York, to spend the evening with him, which we did. 
Several glasses of egg-nog, several games of chess, and 
a parting salute. We returned to our camp ; distance to 
our camp fifty feet. j\Iet at the Temple and sang several 
pieces of music before retiring; our voices so clear and 
sweet after drinking the egg-nog. 

Saturday, April 25th. Sold my gray mare ; she is nearly 
played out. Just notified to go on picket as general officer 
oi division and report at headquarters of General Gibbon 
at 8.30 A. M. tomorrow. Our band plays every 
evening in front of Colonel Jennings' headquarters. Of 
course every one can listen to the sweet music, and we all 
enjoy it. 

April 26th. Fine cool morning. Started for picket line, 
first reporting at headquarters. Relieved Colonel More- 
head, of the io6th P. V. Colonel Cane, of the 69th P. V., 
corps officer. Arrested Captain S. S. Chase and his ser- 
geant, of the 1 2th New Jersey, also a private of the 34th 
New York, they being caught in the act of sending a small 
boat with papers, (called "Christian Banner"), across the 
river to the Rebs, by the commandant of pickets, Captain 
Downing, 42nd New York (Tammany), and sent them to 
me. I then sent the prisoners to division headquarters with 
an escort of sergeant and six men. Took supper at Bry- 
ins' and slept in their parlor. Major-General Hooker vis- 
ited the left and center of my line, with his staff. The 
General is one of the finest looking men, on horseback, I 
ever saw, and the best rider in the army, so it is said. 

April 27th. Returned to camp. Sent my written re- 
port to headquarters. Several days ago a discovery was 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 297 

made in f^almouth, of a submarine cable or telegraph 
across the Rappahannock, where the Rebs got all the news 
from our side as fast as we got it. Several men were 
caught in the act of telegraphing, in a brick house near the 
river. They were arrested, and on Saturday General 
Hooker had the old man shot, and his son put in irons. 
Orders to be ready to move at a moment's notice. Eight 
days' rations and horse feed, etc. Colonel Hall, of the 7th 
Michigan, and commander of our 3rd Brigade, called on 
Colonel Jennings and ordered the Regiment to move at 
9 p. M., (after taps), with everything. Company "H," 
Captain Shott, remains in camp to guard the baggage, etc., 
also the camp of 59th New York. The regiment moved to 
Falmouth and encamped on the plain near the town, and 
bivouacked for the night, without tents, a bright moon- 
light night. Snow towards morning. 

April 28th. Men ordered to put up shelter tents. Quar- 
termaster Orth and self rode up to our camp, (Alleman), 
all the camps around had left except our division. Trains 
of baggage and army wagons going out the Harwood 
Road, up the river. The field officers' tents were put up. 
Dress parade at 5 p. m. This camp named Rohrer. 
Strict orders from headquarters to be ready to move at a 
moment's notice. Our band serenaded Colonel Hall, com- 
manding our 3rd Brigade. 

April 29th. Damp morning. Distant firing of cannon 
heard. Artillery moving. Troops crossed three miles be- 
low Fredericksburg, Sedgwick's corps of 23,500 men. 

Thursday, April 30th. Rained during the night, and 
still raining. Part of our camp drowned out ; we will look 
for a better locality. Took a look, from the hill, at the 
Rebs and Sedgwack's skirmish line on the other side of 
the river. Our balloons are up on the right and left. This 
t 



298 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

is, by President's proclamation, Thanksgiving Day. Five 
p. M. Major-General Hooker just rode by our camp with 
his staff of lancers. Report of artillery on our left. Our 
regiment mustered for pay today. Seven p. m. Ordered 
to be ready to move at break of day. General Hooker is- 
sued a circular, that the enemy must evacuate or come out 
of their trenches and fight. General Hooker is a good or- 
ganizer. The army never was better equipped in every 
respect than now ; not even a shoe-string was wanting. 

May 1st. Arose at 2.30 a. m. Ate breakfast at 
3.30 A. m. Ready to march at break of day. The news 
quite flattering of yesterday's work on the right. General 
Hooker issued a circular, that we had the enemy, that they 
must either flee or come out of their entrenchments and 
fight, and if they do so, we will annihilate them. One p. 
m. Heavy firing of cannon on our right. One hundred 
and eighty prisoners just brought through Falmouth from 
our right. I was detailed to go on picket in the morning 
as commandant of the line. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman 
was also detailed as General officer of pickets for to-mor- 
row at 8 A. m. 

May 2nd. Lieutenant-Colonel Alleman and self re- 
ported to General Gibbon for instructions. For some days 
previous, our cavalry had crossed the river and made a 
raid down near Richmond, destroying railroads and all 
communications with General Lee. Some of the cavalry 
came east of Fredericksburg and the Potomac river, des- 
troying all communication with Lee. They made a com- 
plete circuit. 




BENJAMIN F. BRANDT. 

I'riv.ilc f.i. •II," 127th Uc^'iniuiit, I'. V, 

Trcasiiri 1 Kc.uiniciitjil A-^Sdi-iiition. 

:\liil(!lc(nui!. P:|. 



CHAPTER X 

The 127th Regimental Association. 



/Tf^lT WAS a quarter of a century after the muster- 
MiL^ J °"^ ^^ ^^^ regiment, that an organized Associa- 
i^^^ tion of the survivors of the 127th Regiment was 
formed. 
Considering the strong company attachments, notably 
in Companies "B" and "E," and to a considerable extent 
m Companies ''C" and "H," with more or less company 
ties in each of the other companies, and withal, the bond 
seasoned with pride of the regimental ties, it seems strange 
that what was accomplished at that late day, should not 
have been effected earlier. Generally, those ties of broth- 
erhood assert themselves in the early stages after regi- 
mental dissolution, as they are then considered strongest 
and most forcible, — certainly stronger in numbers, as each 
year decimates the ranks, and years, presumably, weaken 
the ardor. It is sure that some of the comrades favored 
such an organization from the date of honorable dis- 
charge; but while the war was prolonged, many, and in- 
deed most of the members of the regiment entered 
the service in other companies, and other regimental or- 
ganizations, forming later camp and field ties ; while the 
general excitement incident to the war diverted the 
thoughts, and made the reminiscences of '62 and '63 but a 
mere shadow of the actuality; but after peace had been as- 
sured, and the comrades returned to civil life, and had 
ample time to think over their experience in the 127th 

299 



300 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Regiment, the surprise heightens that such an organiza- 
tion was not formed in the middle of the sixties. Some ex- 
pression was given to that idea; but Colonel Jennings 
frowned upon it, and without his full co-operation, such 
an undertaking would have been considered injudicious. 

Comment was freely made upon the fact that the three 
field officers, each and all with splendid military records, 
should have entirely eschewed military display, and fame 
in that line, after the war. Notwithstanding the fact that 
both the Colonel and the Lieutenant-Colonel recruited 
emergency regiments, and again entered the service, re- 
spectively as Colonels of those regiments, yet neither of 
the field officers, after the termination of hostilities, con- 
nected themselves with the militia, or showed the slightest 
wish or pleasure in "Sunday soldiering." They made their 
military records on the bloodiest fields of battle fought in 
the great Civil War, and they rested upon their laurels, 
content with the military fame which they then and there 
acquired. The same feelings prevailed generally among 
the staff and line officers. 

It is a notable fact, which redounds to the honor and 
glory of the 127th Regiment, that, notwithstanding the 
reality, that so many of the officers and men of this regi- 
ment served subsequently, in other regiments, until the 
termination of the war, that their hearts seemed to be with 
the "Dauphin County Regiment;" and they manifested 
their love for it, in giving it their preference in the forma- 
tion of regimental associations. 

While Colonel Jennings yielded to the persistent en- 
treaties of his old command, and concluded, after so many 
years of separation, to call the boys together, its popu- 
larity was manifest, as the response was general and 
hearty. Even though they had scattered all over the 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 3OI 

country, they came together to do honor to their old com- 
manders, and grasp their fellow comrades by the hand 
again. 

At the first meeting, under the call of Colonel Jennings, 
he was unanimously selected as President of the Associa- 
tion. A committee on constitution and by-laws was ap- 
pointed, and it was agreed that regular annual meetings 
should be held thereafter, during the life-time of the sur- 
vivors, on the 3rd of May, — the anniversary of the battle 
of Chancellorsville. 

At the meeting of the comrades, which was held at Har- 
risburg on the 3rd of May, 1889, the committee appointed 
at the former meeting, reported a constitution and bylaws, 
embodying the primogeniture feature of the Loyal Legion, 
with rules governing the Association, and naming the or- 
ganization "The 127th Regiment Association." 

Colonel Jennings refused to permit his name to be used 
again as President of the Association ; so Dr. S. H. Guil- 
ford, of Philadelphia, late of Company "E," was elected 
President ; Colonel W. W. Jennings, President of the First 
National Bank of Harrisburg, was elected first Vice-Pres- 
ident; Colonel J. Wesley Awl, a lawyer, of Harrisburg, 
late captain of Company "B," was elected second Vice- 
President ; and Colonel H. C. Alleman, of New York, late 
Lieutenant-Colonel of the regiment, was elected third Vice 
President; and Major J. Rohrer, of Lancaster, was chosen 
as Marshal. 

Comrade George D. Rise, of Lebanon, late of Company 
"E," was elected Historian and Treasurer; Major Chas. 
H. Small, of Harrisburg, late sergeant-major of the regi- 
ment, was elected Recording Secretary; and Lieutenant 
Albert J. Eager, alderman of Harrisburg, was elected Cor- 
responding Secretary. 



302 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

The following executive committee was elected : Com- 
rades LeRiie Lemer, Company "A;" John F. Kerper, 
Company "B;" George C. Buser, Company "C;" Captain 
James B. Keene, Company "D;" S. S. Shirk, Company 
"E;" Andrew Santo, Company "F;" Samuel Eberly, 
Company "G;" H. H. Brandt, Company "H;" David 
Early, Company "I ;" and Sergeant Henry J. Euston, of 
Company "K." This launched the 127th Regimental As- 
sociation, which has since become the pride of each and all 
of the surviving comrades. 

Comrade Rise filled his dual position with very great 
credit to himself, and to the entire satisfaction of the As- 
sociation, for several years. He made a statement at one 
of the meetings of the Association that he thought it only 
fair that the honors should be divided ; sO' he voluntarily 
resigned the office of Treasurer, and continued to act as 
the historian of the regiment up to the time of his death. 

Comrade Benjamin Brandt, of Middletown, late of 
Company "H," was elected Treasurer, and has continued 
to fill that position very creditably, and his re-election each 
year is the best indication of the appreciation of his fel- 
low comrades. 

These Regimental reunions, or annual meetings of the 
Association are held alternately at Harrisburg, Lebanon, 
Hummelstown, Middletown and Steelton on the 3rd of 
May in each year. 

It is the custom of the President of the Association to 
deliver an address on taking the chair, after which there 
is roll-call, and reports are noted by the Secretary of the 
deaths from each company during the past year. After the 
election of officers for the ensuing year, and the transac- 
tion of routine business, an adjournment takes place for a 
banquet ; and in the evening a camp-fire is held, at which 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 3©^ 

set Speeches are made, and each and all of the comrades 
have the privilege of the floor, and they invariably manage 
to thoroughly enjoy themselves. 

As the several comrades successively reached the Presi- 
dency of the Association, the following addresses were re- 
spectively delivered by them : 



ADDRESS OF COLONEL W. W. JENNINGS. 



Before the Association, at Its First Reunion at Harrisburg. 

While the regiment was in the military service, I was 
in the habit of relying upon my Lieutenant-Colonel to 
make speeches ; but now, since I am out of the service, I 
am compelled to rely on myself. Making speeches is not 
in my line; but I have never yet refused to respond to a 
call, and I am not in the habit of refusing to discharge a 
duty. 

I hesitated a long time about calling my surviving com- 
rades together, and only concluded to obey your bidding 
after receiving appeals from many of you, strongly 
urging me to do so; and now that we have come 
together, I rejoice with you, and trust that our annual 
reunions will be enjoyable and profitable. Surely the older 
we grow, and the oftener we meet in these annual reun- 
ions, the interest will necessarily be increased from time 
to time. It is always a pleasure to me to meet the officers 
and men whom I have commanded, and I have no doubt 
that the feeling is more or less reciprocal. 

I have always felt proud of having commanded the 
127th regiment, which should have been numbered the 
122nd, as we were the first ten companies recruited and 



304 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

accepted; but the fight which was made on the organiza- 
tion of the field officers kept us back, and we lost five num- 
bers through that delay, in settling the controversy. 

It was a matter of regret that only nine companies went 
to the front; and it is consoling at this late day that we 
acted like soldiers and obeyed orders without questioning 
the propriety of those orders ; and I have always felt that 
the men were not to blame, and should not be held ac- 
countable for the disintegration, caused by the detail of 
Company "A" during our entire term of service. 

It has always been a feeling of pride to me that the regi- 
ment, or nine companies which saw active service in the 
front, received the high praise in ''general orders" at the 
termination of our service ; and too much praise cannot be 
bestowed upon you for your manliness and your patriot- 
ism in going into the last battle which we fought, really 
after your term of ser\'ice had expired. The question was 
not raised, and not a single objection was made to me, and 
I never heard even a murmur that was ever made by any 
officer, non-commissioned officer or private against going 
into battle, simply because of the expiration of our term 
of service. We would have been entirely justified in re- 
fusing to obey an order to march in the face of the enemy 
under such circumstances, and disregarding such an order 
was clearly our right ; but on the contrary, instead of dis- 
obeying orders, or even feeling inclined to do so, every 
man seemed eager and anxious to march against and fight 
the enemy, notwithstanding the fact that the term of our 
enlistment had expired, which is very much to the credit 
of the 127th Regiment, and every officer and man con- 
nected with it. I feel a greater pride in this fact than in 
any other, as it shows conclusively that the 127th Regi- 
ment was made up of patriotic material, and was entitled 




COLONEL WILLLAM W. JENNINGS. 

Late SheriCE of DauMliiii Ci'Uiity. 

rn-sidont First National Bank. 

Prcsiilcnt Comnionwealth Trust and S. D. Co. 

Harrisluirg. Pa. 

Diud February 2-ltli, 1S04. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 30$ 

to the very highest praise, fully justified by general orders, 
issued by General Gibbon in May, 1863. 

I congratulate you on so large an attendance, and while 
we cannot expect subsequent meetings to be as large, there 
is no reason why they should not be fully as enthusiastic, 
and as thoroughly enjoyable, with a less number of our 
survivors meeting from time to time. 



ADDRESS OF DR. SIMEON H. GUILFORD, 

Of Philadelphia, Late of Company "E," on His Election as 
President of the Association. 



We rejoice that after the lapse of more than a quarter 
of a century, so many of us are able to be present and take 
part in the celebration of this, our second reunion. 

It is eminently fitting that our gathering should be held 
in this city, for it was here that the regiment was organ- 
ized, and here too, that it was mustered out of service. 

More than this, it was in large measure a "Dauphin 
County Regiment," for this city and county not only fur- 
nished four-fifths of the rank and file, but also supplied all 
of the regimental officers except one. 

A new class of men promptly came forward and offered 
their services. Students fresh from college; young men 
pursuing their professional studies; teachers in educa- 
tional institutions ; men from the bank and counting-house 
and railroad office; lawyers, physicians, merchants and 
clergymen came forward in response to the call, and were 
mustered into the service. Of such men as these, for the 
most part unused to manual toil or hardship, who were 
accustomed to labor with their brains rather than with 
their hands, were our ranks largely made up. 



3o6 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

They were not carried away by exuberance of patriot- 
ism begotten of the drum-beat or bugle-call, but they went 
calmly, actuated only by the sternest sense of duty to their 
country. 

Our regiment was singularly fortunate in having among 
its ofBcers and privates so large a proportion of men of 
liberal education and refinement. 

Equally fortunate were we in the personnel of the line 
and stafif, for they were gentlemen of the highest type; 
vipright, honorable and brave, who knew, not only how to 
preserve the dignity of their own manhood, but also how 
to care for the comfort and well-being of those whom they 
commanded. 

Not one of them sullied his reputation or lessened his 
influence by dishonorable act ; and none flinched in the try- 
ing ordeal of battle. Some had considerable experience in 
military affairs; others were men whose rare intelligence 
and experience in the world well fitted them for the posi- 
tions they held; while others, by their lack of fear, in- 
spired and encouraged those whom they led. 

Of our commanding officers we also had reason to feel 
proud. Our young and gallant colonel — long may he live! 
— was the possessor of many qualities that admirably 
fitted him for the position he held. 

Well versed in the handling and training of men in 
camp, he entered upon his first field service with the ability 
and confidence of a veteran. Strict and stern when on 
duty, he was at other times on companionable terms with 
every member of the regiment, the private receiving as 
much consideration at his hands as the officer. Kind, 
gentle, dignified and brave, he easily won the love and re- 
spect of all. 

Assigned to duty with the Army of the Potomac, our 



127TH REGIMENT, P. V. 307 

regiment experienced the same vicissitudes during our 
term of service, as fell to the lot of the army in general. 
We marched hundreds of miles, garrisoned forts, guarded 
bridges, and participated in two of the bloodiest battles of 
the war. We suffered at times from the heat of southern 
suns and winter's cold ; from hunger and thirst and sick- 
ness. We experienced the varying sensations of victory 
and defeat, and were made fully acquainted with the hor- 
rors of battle, and the hardships of army life. We honor- 
ably and faithfully performed all duties assigned us with 
credit to ourselves and the satisfaction of those under 
whom we served. Who could do more ? 

We are not here today, however, to laud ourselves and 
tell of all we did. We have come, instead, to meet one an- 
other, and renew the acquaintance of twenty-five years 
ago. Some of us have met in the intervening time, but 
most of us have been as strangers since the day of our 
disbandment. 

To-day we come together virtually for the first time as 
survivors of an organization, and as hand clasps hand, 
and eye meets eye, long trains of memories will start un- 
bidden from the dark and hidden recesses of the brain, 
and stand forth illumed as in the day of their creation. 

Scenes and incidents of camp, and picket, and march, 
and battle, will be recalled, and youth will be temporarily 
renewed in their recital. Strange and yet not strange, is 
that unde finable bond of sympathy and friendship that ex- 
ists among comrades of a once great army. Thrown to- 
gether as strangers at a time of life when the affections are 
fresh and new, and friendships easily formed, the intimacy 
of camp life, conjoined with community of interest, and 
common sense of danger, bring about new associations 
that grow in strength as the days go by. 



308 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

To drill side by side in the same company or regiment, 
to bunk in the same mess, to march over the same ground, 
to fight in the same line, and drink from the same canteen, 
must necessarily result in that intimacy which is often the 
forerunner of true friendship. Friendships formed under 
such circumstances can never die, though they may long 
[ie dormant underneath the cares and responsibilities of 
civil life. The renewal and quickening of these old friend- 
ships will constitute the chief pleasure of our assembling 
on this occasion, and as we recall the jovial incidents of 
camp, or picket, or march, or the more serious ones of bat- 
tle, heart will go out to heart, and the bonds of sympathy 
be strengthened. 

Who of us can ever forget our first experience in battle ; 
the deafening roar of 175 pieces of our artillery as their 
9,000 shot and shell rained down upon the doomed city of 
Fredericksburg? After that the crossing of the volunteers 
in the open boats; the completion of the bridges; our 
march to the other side under the fire of scores of batter- 
ies determined to prevent our crossing. Then our skirmish 
through the city, by night, fired upon at every step from 
rifle pit, and cellar, and garret, our way lighted by the 
lurid flames of the burning buildings, and our subsequent 
seeking of rest in house or stable, or on side walk. Can 
we ever forget how, a day later, we were formed in line 
in one of the streets and marched out upon the field of 
battle, the greater portion of our way exposed to a terrific 
fire of shot and shell and bullet ; how, once there, we were 
quickly formed in line of battle and ordered to advance 
upon the enemy's works, all bristling with cannon and 
gleaming with bayonets; or how, after a vain attempt to 
gain our point in the face of a leaden hail, we were forced 
to retire and occupy a less murderous position, while other 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 309 

troops, division after division, were in like manner re- 
pulsed ? How can the scenes and occurrences of that fate- 
ful afternoon in December, 1862, ever be effaced from our 
memories ? Occupying, as we did, the most deadly posi- 
tion of the entire line, which has since been designated the 
"slaughter pen," our ranks decimated in the first attack, 
we were destined to witness, during the five hours we were 
in the conflict, some of the most terrible scenes of carnage 
and destruction that war can produce. 

Hard fighting, gallant charges and unexampled bravery 
had failed to accomplish the impossible, and the result of 
the day's fighting on our side could only be seen in the 
thousands of our comrades' bodies that covered the bloody 
field. 

Toward midnight of Sunday we were again noiselessly 
marched out and placed in our old position on the field to 
await the renewal of the fight which came with the early 
dawn. In that second day's fight the scenes of Saturday 
were repeated, though in less degree, until the hopeless- 
ness of our attempt becoming apparent to the command- 
ing General, we were withdrawn and ordered to our old 
camps among the Stafford Hills. 

Disappointed and disheartened, we passed the succeed- 
ing months in our winter quarters, the monotony of camp 
life only relieved by picket duty on the river's bank where 
we could plainly see, and at times converse, with the 
enemy's picket on the opposite shore. 

One more battle awaited us early in May. General 
Hooker, having been appointed to the command of the 
Army of the Potomac, determined to march on Richmond, 
partly by way of Fredericksburg, and it again fell to our 
lot to occupy the old city and attack the heights beyond. 



310 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

Those eventful days of the 3rd and 4th of May, 1863, 
we shall never forget. 

The gathering of the troops of the Center Division at 
the Lacy House about midnight; crossing the pontoon 
bridge at daybreak ; marching through the city to a plain 
at its western end ; the hot shelling that greeted us as we 
made the feint of an attack at that point ; our withdrawal 
to the city and march southward along the old plank road 
covered with the dead and dying of the 6th Corps who had 
just fought over this ground and captured the heights; 
our further march of four miles in the burning sun, to old 
Salem church, on the way to Chancellorsville, and then, 
when our further movement was prevented by Jackson, 
our return to Fredericksburg under orders to- hold the 
city and await developments. 

Then, though weary and exhausted, we were again 
marched out upon the picket line to spend the night on 
duty instead of in rest. After guarding the city for an- 
other day, we re-crossed the river in the dead of night, for 
defeat had followed close upon the heels of victory. 

A few weeks later we parted with the army and returned 
to our homes, our term of service having expired. 

We did not return, however, as we went out. No regi- 
ment ever does. There were many who started with us 
never to return, and in our welcomings and rejoicings to- 
da}' they must not be forgotten. 

Some, bearing in their systems the hereditary taint of 
that dread disease, consumption, had it developed so rap- 
idly through exposure and hardship, that they were hur- 
ried home to die ; others not hardy enough to stand the or- 
deal of soldier life, were stricken down with feverand died 
in camp ; while others still, and by far the larger portion, 
yielded up their lives upon the field oi battle. All these 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V, 3II 

we miss today. They, with the hundreds of thousands of 
others who met the same fate during the four years of 
war, died that the country might Hve. Brave men all, who 
made the greatest sacrifice that men can make. Some sleep 
their last sleep in the quiet church-yards of their boyhood 
homes, while many lie in the long rows of graves in the 
National Cemeteries, their last resting place marked by 
a head-board, inscribed, "Unknown." Peaceful be their 
rest until they are called to receive the reward of their 
brave deeds and noble sacrifice. 

Let us remember that they have but "gone before," and 
we are slowly following them to that "bourn from whence 
no traveler returns." Many, unharmed in war, have since 
passed away, and others will rapidly follow. 

A quarter of a century has left its time-marks on each 
of us, and another term of equal length will find but few 
remaining. 

ADDRESS OF COLONEL J. WESLEY AWL, 
As President of the Regimental Association. 

(Simply an account of the address was published, and 
no notes of it were found among the papers of Colonel 
Awl, after his death ; so that the report of this address is 
made entirely from memory.) 

My two ranking officers have precedence ; but as one of 
them moved, and the other seconded the motion for my 
election, and their choice was unanimously confirmed by 
you, I see but one thing to do, comrades, submit grace- 
fully and make your pleasure my duty. 

These annual gatherings are pleasing reminders of our 
early association in camp, on the march, on picket and in 
battle. 



312 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

I often wondered, in reading graphic accounts of great 
battles, how it was possible to describe the manoeuvres, 
the advances, the charges, and the retreats in detail, with 
any degree of accuracy; taking it for granted, that the 
nearer the describer was to the scene, the better and the 
more accurate would likely be his description; and then 
recollecting from my personal and official experience in 
the engagements in which I, with my company partici- 
pated, when I was unable to give any satisfactory accounts 
of the battles, much, if any beyond what pertained to my 
own command, only increased my wonder at the marvel- 
ous accounts which correspondents gave, and seemed able 
to give, of what they saw and heard. 

But after the capture of Marie's Heights, and the re- 
turn of the regiment to Fredericksburg; and while I was 
in charge of the pontoon bridge, I felt curious to get a 
glimpse oi the battlefield, and if possible, of the trail of the 
pursuing army, after the retreating enemy. So after giv- 
ing specific instructions to the lieutenant, whom I left in 
charge, I walked over the pontoon-bridge, across the plain 
to the Lacey House, which, from its locality, and height, 
commanded a fine view of Fredericksburg and the country 
in the rear. I went to the top of the house, and was not 
long in taking in the situation. It was a magnificent sight. 
I could see the great battlefield over which we had fought 
the previous day; and could, in my own mind, imagine 
how a person at that distance, with good field glasses, could 
readily distinguish divisions, brigades and regiments ; and 
could also readily see where advantages are taken, and po- 
sitions secured ; and as men dropped, how the ranks would 
be closed up, presenting a solid phalanx, diminishing each 
time in its company or regimental front. This solved in 
my mind a problem, that while "distance lends enchant- 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 3I3 

ment to the view," it also concentrates the scope, enabling 
one to grasp an accurate view in a diminished picture; and 
I concluded that what had heretofore seemed to me an ut- 
ter impossibility, might be a certain fact. I could have 
looked upon the scene for some time with interest; but a 
new scene developed, which became not only interesting, 
but rather appalling. I saw the returning army of Gen- 
eral Lee marching back into their old quarters, and regi- 
ment after regiment filing into positions, which they evi- 
dently previously occupied. 

The 3d Brigade had been ordered back to Fredericks- 
burg to hold the city. I saw at once the impossibility of 
our brigade holding the position any length of time against 
the large bodies of the enemy, apparently getting ready 
to either capture us, or force our speedy retreat ; so while 
I enjoyed the reverie, I felt it my duty to return without 
delay, and report the result of my observation. 

This observation experience was to me a revelation, and 
dissipated doubts which had previously troubled me, and 
went very far in strengthening my faith in the accuracy of 
history. 

As we helped to make history, this little experience of 
mine may be no less interesting to you, than gratifying to 
me. 

Thanking you for your courtesy, we will now proceed 
to business. 



ADDRESS OF MAJOR J. ROHRER, 

At Its Fourth Reunion, on His Election as President of the 
Association. 



Comrades : — You have chosen me as your President for 
the ensuing year. I thank you for the compliment, and I 



314 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

hope to fill the office without prejudice or partiality. There 
is a tie of good feeling and friendship towards each other 
in this Association, which has also prevailed in the regi- 
ment, and now, that we are free citizens, let that same feel- 
mg still pre\-ail amongst us; let us cherish and cultivate 
that feeling until we meet no more. I can only say, what 
I have often said before, that it always gives me so much 
pleasure to meet my comrades at our re-unions, and shake 
hands with them all. It brings back old recollections of 
the past, when you faced the elements in doing your duty, 
through snow, rain, and mud, without a murmur. You 
have faced the cannon's mouth like men. You stood on 
the picket post, in face of the enemy, the rain coming down 
in torrents, or the snow and storm beating your unpro- 
tected bodies. All these you have endured for the love of 
your country. I again thank you. 



ADDRESS OF COLONEL H. C. ALLEMAN, 
President of the Association. 



On the 3rd of May, 1893, the Association held its an- 
nual reunion at ]\Iiddletown, Pa., which was the last meet- 
ing attended by Colonel W. W. Jennings. 

The chief burgess made the speech of welcome, and 
handed over the keys of the treasur}^ welcoming the sur- 
vivors of the 127th Regiment to the freedom of the bor- 
ough. Colonel H. C. Alleman, the President of the Asso- 
ciation, responded as follows : 

"It joys the hearts and thrills the souls of old soldiers 
to witness spontaneous outbursts of patriotism, and be 
greeted with such a genial, such a generous, and such a 
gracious welcome. It makes us feel that the Union vet- 




MAJOR JEREMIAH ROHRER. 

L.-itt' Kc^^isti'i- of Laiu-iistiT fimuiy. 

Mei'pliant. 

Lancaster, Pa. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 315 

eran has not yet been wholly relegated to the shades of ob- 
livion, or ingloriously shelved, and labeled a "far back 
number." 

"On behalf of my surviving comrades of the 127th Reg- 
iment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, I thank you, sir, the 
first citizen and chief magistrate of this progressive bor- 
ough, for the happy thoughts and beautiful manner in 
which you have so admirably expressed the kindly wel- 
come to us ; and I voice the unanimous sentiment of those 
comrades, in thanking one and all of the people of Middle- 
town for the flattering compliment of this superb recep- 
tion. We gladly accept your proffered hospitality with 
the genuine warmth, and enthusiastic gratitude of sol- 
diers ; and while we beg to assure you of our grateful ap- 
preciation of this distinguished honor, we at the same time 
want you to feel, that in your admiration for the citizen 
soldiers who nobly fought, as patriots, to uphold the su- 
premacy of the general government, and maintain the in- 
tegrity of this glorious Union, you have, by your grand 
demonstration to-day, tenderly touched a sympathetic 
chord in our hearts, which vibrates in harmonious unison 
with your own patriotic and generous impulses. 

"When Comrade Brandt, of Company "H," one year 
ago, generously invited the 127th Regimental Association 
to hold its fifth re-union at Middletown, some fears were 
expressed, and yet greater fears entertained, that but lit- 
tle interest would be manifested in our anniversary meet- 
ing by either the boys of Major Rohrer's old company, or 
by the citizens generally of your historic borough. We 
have all, however, learned to know from practical experi- 
ence, that it is the easiest thing in the world to be mistak- 
en. I had full confidence in the manliness of Company 
"H," and from personal and long experience, I well know 



3l6 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

that your substantial citizens never did things by halves, 
or grudgingly, and that they are a whole-souled, big- 
hearted and liberal-minded people; so I had no phantom 
apprehensions, and accordingly voted for Middletown, 
and I am supremely proud to-day of that vote. 

"Wherever we hold our reunions, we are greeted by 
kind friends, and are treated with marked respect and 
distinguished courtesy. Harrisburg led off with a grand 
banquet. Lebanon followed, capturing our hearts with 
their bountiful hospitality and prodigal entertainment. 
Even the reconstructed people of the classic fields of 
Fredericksburg were severely reminded that we command 
and enforce respect. Hummelstown received us with open 
arms, and in brotherly love treated us splendidly. But 
Middletown is unique in giving us the first public and 
official reception, tendering us the freedom of the borough, 
and welcoming us by its distinguished burgess and honor- 
able council. I think I unmistakably echo the exuberant 
feelings of my comrades, when I assert and emphasize the 
patent fact that without disparaging any of the amenities 
and courtesies which have heretofore been graciously 
showered upon us ; that for patriotic manifestations, ar- 
tistic decorations, genial enthusiasm, official recognition, 
and graceful hospitality, the public spirited people of Mid- 
dletown have certainly won the distinctive merit of lead- 
ing all of the hospitable hosts before them. Like the self- 
asserting, meritorious wine at the marriage feast of Cana 
in Galilee, the "best" has cleverly been reserved for the 
"last.^^ 

"In passing through your gayly decorated streets today, 
beautifully festooned with "Old Glory," that patriotic in- 
spiring banner of freedom seems to have been unfurled 
from every house-top, and streaming from every window, 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 31/ 

reminding one of our own dear, dear flag. When we entered 
the mihtary service of our country, the grand old War 
Governor of this Commonwealth presented tO' us a stand 
of colors, in the name of the Keystone State. Those beau- 
tiful stars and stripes, whose clustered galaxy embody the 
unity idea of the States; and whose white and red folds 
are typical of the crests of victory, and the blood of sacri- 
fice, all symbolic and emblematic of one united and insep- 
arable great nationality, constitute the American flag. 
That flag was our pride and our constant admiration. We 
carried it in triumph through every battle in which we 
participated. We brought back that flag, bullet-ridden, 
torn, tattered, and in shreds from the burning, devastat- 
ing missiles of treason, it is true; but untarnished, un- 
scathed and gloriously free from even the taint of dis- 
honor. I wish that idol which we worshipped in earlier 
years were here to-day. That flag was never sullied, pol- 
luted or touched by Rebel hands ; it was never trailed or 
lowered ; and no true soldier believes in humbling, or low- 
ering the great American flag. 

"As Company "H" has been an important factor in mak- 
ing this re-union a memorable success, notwithstanding 
the fact that only a squad remains of the hundred Middle- 
town boys who enrolled themselves, and were mustered 
with us into the United States service nearly thirty-one 
years ago; I can do no less upon this public occasion, in 
the presence of their comrades, and of their neighbors, 
than add my tribute of praise to their well-earned and de- 
serving recognition. 

"Thirty years ago to-day. Lieutenant Knisley, as brave, 
as manly, and as gallant an officer as ever faced the deadly 
fire of treason, fell, covered with mortal wounds, upon the 
battle-field, while leading his men on a skirmish advance. 



3l8 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

He knew when he received his orders from Colonel Jen- 
nings to command the skirmish line, that he would march 
directly into the very jaws of death ; and yet he never mur-' 
mured, he never faltered, he never even quailed. He 
was a soldier, and knowing the inflexible duty of a sol- 
dier to 'obey orders,' regardless of consequences, he never 
shrank from any imposed responsibility ; he never shirked, 
and never evaded duty, even at the risk oi life. He marched 
out on his 'forlorn hope' with a detail of his gallant com- 
pany, with the steady tread of a hero, brandishing his 
sword in the face of the enemy, in encouragement of his 
men. He fell proudly, with his face to the foe, pouring 
out his heart's blood on the gory field of Fredericksburg. 
He died, riddled with bullets, but covered with glory, in 
defending that grand old star-spangled-banner, and in 
preservation of the Union and the Nation, that we might 
live to enjoy the beneficence of the best, the freest and the 
noblest government on the face of the earth. 

"Middletown made many valuable contributions to the 
army during the War of the Rebellion, and offered up 
many sacrifices upon the altar of her country; and Lieu- 
tenant Knisley was but one of those valuable offerings, 
and he was but a single one of her many sacrifices. 

"There was an honored custom among some ot the an- 
cients of antiquity, to sit in judgment on the living records 
of the distinguished dead. Long after the retirement of 
great officials, or upon the death of recognized leaders, or 
those who unselfishly oft"ered themselves as State victims 
for sacrifice; the people in their strength assembled in 
grand communions; or their fellow associates of the Na- 
tion's Tribunal met and sat in solemn conclave, discussed, 
considered and scanned the virtues and the public acts of 
deceased mortals deserving a proud nitch in the colossal 



T2|rTH REGIMENT, P. V. 319 

tower of immortality. The results of those conferences 
were announced in proclaimed verdicts, which became the 
accepted judgments of the whole community. 

"After the lapse of a generation, when history can be 
honestly written with an impartial pen, a verdict upon the 
military service of your citizen soldiers who were part and 
parcel of the 127th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
can safely be rendered. Those who had the best means 
of knowing, sat in judgment upon the military records of 
those veterans, gave the whole matter careful considera- 
tion, and formulated a verdict ; while here, and now, is an 
appropriate and fitting occasion to promulgate it. 'Com- 
pany "H," of the 127th Regiment did their duty, their 
whole duty to their country in its life and death struggle 
for existence, and they did it well.' What a glorious ver- 
dict ! And what a noble tribute to patriotic duty ! And 
now, that the verdict is pronounced, and judgment en- 
tered without appeal, their children, and their children's 
children have succeeded to the noblest inheritance; richer 
and greater than wealth; proud and enduring as fame; 
and priceless, and of inestimable value ; while you, and the 
entire community must necessarily feel a glowing pride in 
the splendid luster which their patriotism reflects upon 
the whole people." 



ADDRESS OF HON. THOMAS Q. SAMPLE. 

Late Lieutenant of Company "F," 127th Regiment, on 

Taking the Chair as President of the Regimental 

Association. 



"Comrades : — I want to assure you that I appreciate, to 
the fullest extent, the honor that you have conferred upon 



320 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

me, in electing me President of the Association of the old 
regiment. 

"We are all now on the Western side of life, and as we 
stop for a moment and take a retrospective glance of the 
time that has elapsed since we 'drank from the same con- 
teen,' we must all feel honored, that in our youthful days 
we marched, bivouacked, and fought for the greatest 
country, and the proudest flag of the nations of the world. 

" 'Old Father Time' has not dealt very gently with the 
boys of the 127th Regiment; many have been mustered 
out finally in these piping days of peace, and those of us 
who are struggling along through life feel more acutely 
the days as they come and go. But comrades, what signi- 
fies that ? We stand to-day as a part of the remnant of the 
grandest army that the world ever knew; and when you 
and I and the rest of the boys who followed 'old glory' 
shall have passed away, the record made by the Union 
volunteer soldier from '61 to '65 will then become the 
choicest possession of this great American nation. 

"The old 127th did its full duty; and when the regiment 
was finally mustered out, many of the boys, keeping alive 
the patriotic spirit that animated them in its ranks, drifted 
into other commands, and were in the war at the finish. 

"No grander sight was ever witnessed than the superb 
charge of our regiment at the battle of Fredericksburg; 
and the same unbroken line at Chancellorsville ; and while 
many of our comrades gave up their lives, and others car- 
ried the battle-marks upon their persons, we have the 
proud consolation of boasting that the 127th Regiment 
was among the very last, in both these great engagements, 
to leave the field. 

"The record of the regiment has been made, and the 
proud facts of the gallantry displayed, and the honors 




HON. THOMAS G. SAMPLE, 
Sf:ilc SuiMTiiiti'iiilc'Ht nf I'l-inl hij;. 




ADJUTANT AUGUSTUS L. CHAYNE. 

Adjiit:iiit lliTUi Ucgimoiit, 1'. V. 

Jlerehaut, 

Harrisburg, Pa. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 321 

achieved, go down into history to your credit, and to the 
honor and glory of this great nation. 

"Again thanking you for the distinguished honor you 
have conferred upon me ; and properly appreciating the 
very high compliment thrust upon me, it will be my duty, 
and my very great pleasure, to endeavor to serve you to 
the best of my ability." 



ADDRESS OF ADJUTANT AUGUSTUS L. CHAYNE, 
As President of the Association. 



"Fellow Comrades : — ^While I am sorry that your par- 
tiality has made me your choice for the presidency of the 
Association during the coming year, I have never yet 
faltered when 'under orders,' and I shan't show the 
'white feather' in the 'sere and yellow leaf of life.' 

"There is one thing of which I am always fond of 
boasting — the pride I felt in Company "D;" and the yet 
greater pride I always felt, feel now, and will feel during 
life, in the 127th Regiment. I had great opportunities of 
knowing, next to the field officers, as much about the regi- 
ment, because of my official position, as any officer or man 
in it; and I want to say to you, comrades, that I have no 
fault to find with any officer connected with the regiment ; 
and I voluntarily place my testimony on record, knowing 
what I do, and being fully conversant with the history of 
the regiment from its organization, to its honorable dis- 
charge, that both officers and men made an exceptionally 
good record, of which they have a right to be proud ; and 
my pride is in the fact that I was Adjutant of the 127th 
Regiment; and if I had the choice in the selection of any 
inscription upon my tomb-stone, it would be 'In memory 



322 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

of Augustus L. Chayne, late Adjutant of the 127th Regi- 
ment, Pennsylvania Volunteers.' That would be my 
pride, and that would be my glory. 

'T thank you, comrades, for your kind distinction ; and 
trust that we may repeat these pleasant re-unions many 
more times." 



ADDRESS OF MAJOR JOHN T. ENSMINGER, 

Late Lieutenant of Company "A," as President of the Regi- 
mental Association. 



"Comrades : — I appreciate the honor of an election as 
President of our Association, and feel particularly hon- 
ored in being the first of Company "A" for that distinc- 
tion. 

"While Company "A" was detached from the regiment 
during its entire term of service, both the officers and men 
of that company longed to join their comrades in the front, 
and take their proper position on the right of the regi- 
ment. If we had been given our choice, the regiment 
would have been complete in the field. We entered the 
service as soldiers, determined to obey orders. Our orders 
were for the performance of detached duty, which we per- 
formed creditably and honorably. That we did not see ser- 
vice together during our entire term, was a matter of very 
much regret on the part of Company "A," who feel an 
equal pride with each and every company of the regiment 
in the good record which was made by the 127th Regi- 
ment in the front ; but as a part of the organization we felt 
strongly attached to the regiment, to which we were as- 
signed, and we have always felt, and feel now a becoming 
pride as a part and parcel of the 127th Regiment. My 




MAJOR JNO. T. ENSMINGER. 

Prt'sulciit i)f ]i;7tli H('i;iineatiil Association. 




HON. CYRUS RESSLEY LANTZ. 

Attonu'.v-at-Liiw, 

Lebanon, Pa. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V, 323 

election as your presiding officer is evidence of a strong 
fraternal feeling, and this compliment will be the means 
of cementing, more firmly. Company "A" with the other 
companies of the regiment. Each and every member of 
the 127th Regiment has a right to feel proud of the record 
which has been made, and in our annual re-unions, we 
want it distinctly understood that Company "A" is loyal 
and true to the regiment, and as a company, did its duty 
faithfully and without a murmur. 

"Again I thank you comrades for the partiality of your 
expressed confidence.'" 

John T. Ensminger, 
Lieutenant Company "A," 127th Regiment, P. V. 



ADDRESS OF COMRADE C. R. LANTZ, 

Delivered in the City of Harrisburg at tlie Re=union of the 

127th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, Upon His 

Election as President of Said Organization, 



"Comrades : — You have kindly selected me as your pre- 
siding officer for the ensuing year. I thank you very 
heartily for this honor conferred upon me — an honor that 
is worthy to be bestowed upon any soldier that has worn 
the blue. Our meeting is fraught with many historical, 
memorable and pathetic reminiscences of the great civil 
struggle between the North and the South. 

"Vividly, to-day. the scenes of our enlistment in the ser- 
vice of Uncle Sam, here are brought before us. The lov- 
ing adieu of parents, sweethearts and friends come dis- 
tinctly into our minds. The 'Old Oaken Bucket' by the 
well, and the 'old homestead,' generally, are still near and 
dear to us when we remember the time we left them for 



324 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

the seat of war. Tlie place of our meeting to-day is fraught 
also with wonderful scenes of military eclat and excite- 
ment in city and camp life. Here, in the city of Harris- 
burg, all the regiments of that magnificent army of the 
Keystone State soldiery were convoked, equipped and 
organized. Here vividly to our minds come before us the 
figure of that great War Governor, Andrew G. Curtin, 
and the athletic, stalwart personality of our late distin- 
guished Colonel W. W. Jennings ; here we call to remem- 
brance the first acquaintanceship of the gallant line officers 
of our regiment ; here we remember the old Camp Curtin, 
where we first donned the blue uniform, and put on the 
army shoes; here we first became acquainted with the 
camp-kettles, and rations of the soldier; and here we en- 
joyed the applause and patriotism of the people, of not 
only this particular locality, but of the entire State of 
Pennsylvania. We rejoice and congratulate our regiment 
that we meet to-day in the same old city of Harrisburg. 
Many of our comrades are not with us, their bodies lie 
mouldering in and on the plains of Fredericksburg. I 
cannot recount specifically the acts, triumphs, bravery and 
heroism of the regiment upon the field of battle, on the 
bivouac, march and campaign. Sufficient to say that the 
127th Regiment has gained an enviable reputation in the 
history of the war, and shines as a glittering star in that 
great contest between the North and the South, in the in- 
terest of the emancipation of a down-trodden and forlorn 
race, and the perpetuity of our government. We rejoice 
in the propriety of our government's great triumph, 
and the success of our army in the interest of freedom 
and civilization, the result of that great contest, and we 
deplore the great sacrifice and loss of life and treasure in 
the accomplishment for that purpose. We revere and re- 




COMRADE WILLIAM H. SIPLE. 

Co. ■■II," 127tli KruiiiKMit, 1'. V. 

Liiuilwr Mi'i-fliiiiit. 

rittsburg, I'a. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 325 

gret the loss of many brave friends and comrades of our 
regiment, and we pray that the soothing hand of Provi- 
dence may abide with the widows and orphans that are 
left still to mourn their loss. We rejoice in the develop- 
ment of our national prosperity, and implore Divine Prov- 
idence that He may continue to bless this united and re- 
stored glorious country. Henceforth we shall know no 
distinction between the North and the South; and as one 
united people we shall go forward to still greater national 
and individual prosperity, 'a government of the peo- 
ple, by the people, and for the people, which shall never 
perish from the earth.' 

''Comrades, I bespeak much interest, happiness and 
pleasure in our deliberations. I desire your co-operation in 
the affairs of our organization, and pray that you will aid 
your presiding officer in discharging his duties to your in- 
terest, your judgment, and for the advancement, enlarge- 
ment and continuance of our organization until the last 
comrade has answered the roll-call at Reveille." 



ADDRESS OF COMRADE WILLIAM H. SIPLE. 
As President of the Association, 



"Dear Comrades : — I thank you for the confidence and 
honor conferred on me, in elevating me to the presidency 
of the Regimental Association, and let me assure you that 
I thoroughly appreciate it, and feel dignified by the fur- 
ther fact that I was only a private in the service, and I am 
consoled by the great fact that the post of private was the 
post of honor. 

"It is delightful to meet together in these annual re- 
unions. Our ranks are decreasing each year, and in a 



326 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

very few years the announcement will be made that the 
last member of the 127th Regiment has joined the ma- 
jority. Let us hope that such time is far, far distant, and 
while we have the opportunity, let us embrace the advant- 
age of greeting each other fraternally in our annual re- 
unions. 

"I again thank you for the honor of your confidence." 



At the annual reunion of the Association at Hummels- 
town in May, 1898, Comrade John L. Whisler, of Middle- 
town, Pa., late of Company "H," was elected president of 
the Association for the ensuing year. Unfortunately, 
when the annual meeting of the Association was held at 
Middletown in May, 1899, he was incapacitated from oc- 
cupying the chair on account of severe illness, very much 
to his regret, and that of his fellow comrades. 

On learning of the illness of Comrade John L. Whisler, 
who had been elected as the eleventh President of the As- 
sociation at Hummelstown, Col. AUeman and Comrade 
Siple, as a Committee of the Association, visited him at 
bis Middletown home, and found him confined to his bed 
with acute inflammatory rheumatism ; but he dictated this 
message : — 

QREETINQ OF COMRADE JOHN L. WHISLER, 
As President of the Association. 



"Comrades of the 127TH Regiment: 

"Profoundly grateful for the distinguished honor 
which you conferred on me in elevating me to the highest 
position in your gift, as an Association, it is with very 
great regret that I am compelled to forego the pleasure of 




JOHN L. WHISLER. 

I'livati' I'll. •■II," 127tli Ki'uiiiii'iit, r. V. 

Midillftowii, I'M. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 327 

occupying the chair to-day and presiding at your dehbcr- 
ations. My heart and soul are with you, the spirit is will- 
ing; but the flesh is too weak to permit my presence to- 
day. 

"I feel a very great interest in the Association, and it 
seems to me that the older I grow, the fonder I become of 
each successive reunion, when I can meet my comrades 
face to face, and grasp the welcome hand. 

"I know that you will excuse me from fulfilling my 
duty in the face of an absolute impossibility to leave my 
bed, much as I would like to do so, to fill the chair which 
is the height of my ambition. 

"Wishing you all good cheer, and trusting to be with 
you at your next re-union, I shall think of you kindly, and 
only, as one comrade can think of his fellow comrades." 



ADDRESS OF COMRADE LEVI F. HEICHER, 
As President of the Association, 



"Comrades : — While I am not a candidate for the pres- 
idency of the Association, your unanimous vote calling me 
to the chair makes it obligatory upon me to accept the 
honor, for I am too good a soldier to disobey orders. 

"I am glad to meet you again, and I know that I express 
the sentiment of each and all of you in declaring that 'it 
is good for us to be here.' These reunions are delightful, 
and bring back some of the pleasant reminiscences of by- 
gone days. It is true that we had privations, that we en- 
dured hardships, and that we suffered pains and aches; 
but we tried to do our duty ; and now have the proud con- 
sciousness of being 'honorably discharged' soldiers of the 
great Civil War. 



328 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

"Comrades, I thank you for your confidence, and trust 
to merit your expectations as your presiding officer. I 
shall rely upon your generous assistance, and it will be my 
aim to follow closely in the footsteps of those illustrious 
comrades who have graced the chair before me ; and I as- 
sure you that when you meet with the comrades in Steel- 
ton, you will be met with a hearty welcome by them, and 
the citizens in general. 

"May our meetings in the future be many, and our 
comradeship grow stronger." 



ADDRESS OF LIEUTENANT ALBERT J. FAQER. 
As President of the Association, 



"Comrades of the 127TH Regiment: — It is a distin- 
guished honor to be President of this Association, and I 
appreciate that distinction very much, as it is an honor 
that is made more prominent by an unwritten law of this 
organization, that, passing the chair, fills the measure of 
compliment and dignity which this Association is able to 
confer. 

"I am happy, comrades, to welcome so many of you this 
afternoon to this thirteenth reunion of the survivors of 
our old regiment; and am particularly pleased to learn 
from the adjutant, in advance of his report, that death 
has treated our comrades so lightly during the past year. 

"Thanking you one and all for your generous partiality 
in raising me to the chair; and as your presiding officer, 
you have my solemn assurance that I properly appreciate 
the great honor conferred upon me, and with your help, 
m the future, as you have given it in the past, I will take 
pleasure in doing my utmost to further the interests of the 




LIEUTENANT ALBERT J. EAGER. 

First Lieutfiiaiit Co. ■T.," 127tli lic.uiincnl. I'. V. 

Aklermiin, Hunisbmg-, I'a. 




CAPTAIN HENRY T. EUSTON. 

Serjeant Co. ••!<;, " 127th Rfgimeiit. P. V. 

Sup(>i-iiit('iiili'iit, 

Lcliaimii, I'a. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 329 

Association. I will try to preside over your deliberations 
with the same impartiality which has so uniformly charac- 
terized the rulings of my predecessors." 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN HENRY T. EUSTON, 
Late Sergt. of Company "K," as President of the Associa= 

tion. 



My comrades did me the honor of electing me Presi- 
dent of the Association in my absence, which fact only 
adds to the pleasure of feeling the kindness of their par- 
tiality. 

I fully endorse the action of the Association in conclud- 
ing to prepare and publish a history of the 127th Regi- 
ment; and without making any invidious distinction, our 
regiment made a creditable record, equal to any, and 
second to none of the short term Regiments — having par- 
ticipated in two of the greatest battles of the late Civil 
War, — the Regiment is entitled to historical recognition; 
and the gallantry of its brave boys deserves to be spread 
upon the records of the country for the gratification of the 
surviving participants, their families, and their friends, 
and for the information of the general public. 

That work has been completed under the careful pre- 
paration of the Committee, and the Association has no 
cause to blush for the significant part which they took in 
the great struggle for the restoration of the seceded 
States back into the Union. 

The history adds lustei to the reputation of the Com- 
rades, who made so many sacrifices in their youthful 
days for the preservation of the Government, and we all 
feel proud that we made our individual contribution to 
that grand record. 



330 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

EULOGY ON THE DEATH OF COL. WM. VV. JENNINGS, 

And His Deceased Comrades, Delivered By Colonel H. C. 

Alleman, at the Sixth Reunion, Held at Steelton, 

Pa., in May, 1894. 



"The beautiful theory has been advanced, that spirits of 
the departed may return and enjoy, unseen, the places fa- 
miliar to them in life. If that be true, — and I have heard 
no reasonable refutation of that doctrine, — then we have 
with us to-night as honored, though unseen guests, a host 
of our beloved comrades — 700 strong, — marshaled and led 
by their gallant commander in life, enjoying with us, the 
sixth re-union of the Association, commemorative of the 
thirty-first anniversary of our second entry into Freder- 
icksburg, and the Sunday battle of Chancellorsville. What 
an interesting and inspiring picture it would make ! How 
we all wish that it could be plainly materialized ! How 
charmingly it would remind us of 'Auld Lang Syne !' 
Thirty-five score and more familiar faces of our old com- 
panions, many of whom have been hidden from us, lo ! 
these many years. 

'Tn the van, leading our comrade heroes, we would see 
the manly form of the gallant Colonel who twice led us 
into battle, and brought us out safely; not without 
danger ; not without casualties, — great and irreparable ; 
but with both honor and glory. 

"Now let us view this grand panorama poetically before 
us ! Here is the familiar face of Colonel William W. Jen- 
nings, though etherealized and spiritualized, it has plainly 
stamped upon it the impress of his noble traits of 
character ; calm, cool and collected ! Brave without 
being impetuous ; courageous without being either 
unwary or obdurate; self-reliant and assuming re- 




HOJ^. h. c. alleman. 

liUto Military (icvenior. Cottysburg Cat 1 1.^lirid. 

Uopi'osentative ami r. S. District Att(jnhy. 

I'rt'Sidciit Alli'iuan i.aw (■..nipaiiy. 

New York. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 33 1 

sponsibility, without egotism, or without ignoring 
the counsels of his associate officers; a clear brain, 
a sound judgment; a splendid, if not unique example 
to his fellow officers and men ; having the courage 
of his convictions, but subordinate to his superior officers ; 
thoroughly patriotic, and imbued with his duty to his gov- 
ernment; without ostentation, or the semblance of dema- 
gogy; with a religious reverence for his flag; a fa- 
therly care and deep concern for each and every man in 
his command — knowing his duty, he performed it ably, 
conscientiously and faithfully. 

"His life was gentle, and the elements 
So mix'd in him that Nature might stand up 
And say to all the world, 
'This was a man.' " 

"He had the united and loyal confidence of his officers ; 
the respect and affection of his men, and by his superior 
ability, and by the force of his indomitable will, he remov- 
ed obstacles, and conquered opposition. Is it in the least 
marvelous that such a born leader of men should be suc- 
cessful, or accomplish the wholesale capture of the hearts 
in his command ? 

"None knew him, but to love him; 
None named him, but to praise." 

"With him, wx see the intrepid Awl, calm, dignified, 
self-possessed, fully aware of his resourceful powers, he 
felt himself equal to any emergency. His example of the 
Christian soldier inspired his men with confidence and 
courage, making him the appropriate idol of Company 
"B." 

"There is Chaplain Gregg, cheery as of yore, asserting 
himself, and always ready to preach a sermon to the boys. 



332 MEMORIAL HISTORY 

carry their letters, visit them in the hospitals, or ac- 
cept the hospitality of a good dinner. 

"There, too, is the genial and heroic Captain Fox, be- 
loved by all who knew him, and the first victim in the reg- 
iment of the enemy's shells. 

"Here is the big-hearted Captain Ball, with the regula- 
tion military salute; and a kind word for everyone. As 
a drill-master he had nO' superior, and but few equals. 

"There is Captain Henderson, always loyal and true, 
not only to his friends, but to the sacred colors of the regi- 
ment, which were confided to his keeping, and returned 
without a stain. With him is the courteous and gentle- 
manly Captain Nissley, looking every inch the soldier, 
which he proved himself to be. He was Nature's noble- 
man. 

"There, too, is Captain Shott, always distinguished for 
his quiet and unobtrusive manner; and with him is the 
heroic Knisley, as brave a soldier as ever breathed the 
breath of life. Here come Lieutenant Shoemaker, Lieu- 
tenant Orth, Lieutenant Reed, Lieutenant Novinger, 
Lieutenant Carmany, Lieutenant Osman, Sergeant Hum- 
mel, Orderly Boas, and the many, many others whom we 
loved so well in life, and whose memories we honor in 
death. 

"Their numbers are annually increasing; while ours are 
correspondingly decreasing. They are anxiously looking 
for us to join them, answer roll-call again, and show the 
127th Regiment full and complete; — they knowing, as do 
we, that we are all numbered for enrollment with those of 
our brave comrades who have 'gone on before.' 

"Our re-unions are positively refreshing, and joy tne 
hearts of every attendant. The fraternal greeting, the 
kind and friendly word exchanged, the hearty grasp of the 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 333 

hand, are all thoroughly relished by every comrade. But, 
while we think so kindly of the living, we do not forget 
that we are all old soldiers, and we have a lively recollec- 
tion of the hardships and privations which we endured, 
the pains and aches which we suffered on the tented and 
on the battlefields; but our liveliest and fondest recollec- 
tions are of the dead comrades whom we shall never see 
again as mortals; whose cherished names, and affection- 
ate memories are indelibly stamped upon our grateful 
hearts, and will continue to feed our hungry thoughts to 
the latest moments of our prolonged existence. 

"It is one of the constitutional features of a soldier's 
composition to stand, or fall, with his comrades. While 
we live, whether in the joys of prosperity, or the throes of 
adversity, nothing will tempt us to forget our duty to- 
wards the dead ; and the time will never come, my com- 
rades, when we will permit to fade from our loyal hearts, 
into the depths of ignoble obscurity, the honored name, 
the immortal fame, and the beloved memory of Colonel 
William W. Jennings. 

"From time immemorial, it has been the beautiful cus- 
tom to mingle with tears for the beloved dead, eulogies of 
their eminent virtues and of the noble acts of their well- 
spent lives. The Greeks worshipped the memory of their 
illustrious dead in classic elegies; the Romans immortal- 
ized their heroes in superb orations, — which, for eloquence 
and elegance of diction has never been excelled, — while 
many of the great poets like Shakspeare, Milton, Dante, 
Tennyson and Longfellow, seemingly by inspiration, have 
beautified and emphasized the heavenly truth of Bible 
teaching, that there is a higher life; that while selfishness 
is human, living for and loyalty to others, is the highest 
type of refined greatness, and reaches the pinnacle of the 
God-like. 



334 MEMCUIAL HISTORY 

The soldier hero has in all ages, appropriately com- 
manded the admiration of the world. His bravery, his 
courage, and his heroism have inspired the silver tongue 
of the orator, and the facile pen of the poet, from the earli- 
est days to the present. The savage chief measures great- 
ness by the number of scalps dangling from the belt; while 
the Koran impressively teaches the follower of Moham- 
med the prophet, that death upon the battle-field is an ab- 
sokitely sure passport to the realms of everlasting bliss. 

"When I was a lad of seven or eight years, I found a 
singular picture in the street. It represented, in bright 
colors, the antipodes — Heaven and Hell — with two great 
processiojis of humanity, the one ascending, and the other 
descending. ]\Iy eye quickly caught the figure of a soldier 
in uniform, and riveted my attention. My judgment was 
that he was misplaced — as he was in the downward stream 
— while I concluded that he should be conspicuous in the 
upward column, as I had been taught, and felt, that a sol- 
dier who devoted his life to his country was entitled to the 
rich reward of eternal happiness. Angered at what I 
thought a very great injustice to the soldier, I indignantly 
tore the picture into shreds, and proudly scattered the 
fragments to the fovir winds of heaven. Comrades ! let 
me say just here, that I am not sure that I have changed 
my opinion, or belief. The patriot who voluntarily sacri- 
fices his life, and all that he holds dear, upon the altar of 
his country, will not likely be sacrificed by a just and mer- 
ciful God in the great hereafter. 

His reward is the greeting of the Great Judge — "Well 
done, good and faithful servant, enter thou intO' the joys 
of thy Lord." 

"How well we all remember the last time our beloved 
Colonel met with us at our fifth reunion at Middletown. 



I27TH REGIMENT, P. V. 335 

He was late, and we halted for him. He received an ova- 
tion, and walking next him, he expressed to me his de- 
light at the spontaneous and gracious greeting with 
which he was saluted. He was unusually cheerful, and 
said that his attachment to the old regiment was growing 
on him; and that his interest in the Association was 
greater than ever. How well he spoke when we called for 
a speech ; and none of us then for a moment thought that 
it was his last, his farewell speech. 

We then boasted that the three original field officers 
who were mustered in together were yet alive, and in the 
best of health, promising many long years of usefulness ; 
but little did we think that at the next re-union we would 
mourn the loss of our gallant leader. 

"There is a vacuum on this platform. Yonder vacant 
chair appeals silently and painfully to our hearts, and 
breathes volumes of eulogium. It speaks with a fervid 
eloquence, surpassing the beautiful imagery of the best 
chosen words. I believe in the 'eternal fitness of things,' 
and were I to consult my feelings and the sacredness of 
the moment, — silence would reign supreme, as the sol- 
emnity of the occasion both justifies and sanctifies the 
bated breath in this, the virtual presence of the immortal 
dead. If I had my choice, in solemn silence. I would let 
the agonized hearts of my fellow comrades thrill the bit- 
terness of their anguish; and I would allow only the in- 
spired pen to write the praises, w-ell deserved, of Colonel 
William W. Jennings." 



105 79 




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